The Blue Badge parking scheme for disabled people was improved on 30th August 2019.  Now people with non-physical disabilities, as well as those with physical disabilities, can apply for a blue badge, if they have difficulty walking or following a journey. This includes people with “hidden” disabilities, such as problems caused by stress, anxiety, autism, learning disabilities and mental health conditions.

You don’t need to be able to drive to apply for a Blue Badge – you can use it when you are being driven somewhere by a friend or family member, so that you don’t have to walk so far when you get to your destination.

Your will automatically be eligible for a blue badge if you receive certain types of benefits. These include some categories of Personal Independence Payment and the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance.

Even if you are not automatically eligible, you can still apply for a badge. Your local authority will use evidence from doctors and other healthcare professionals to determine whether you qualify or not.

You can check your eligibility and apply for a local authority-issued Blue Badge at www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge. Some local authorities will still allow you to make a blue badge application on a paper form, rather than online.  Ask your local council if you want to do this.

You’ll need a recent digital passport-style photo, proof of your identity, address, details of any benefits you receive and your National Insurance number.  You will also need evidence of how your disability or condition affects your mobility unless you are automatically entitled to a blue badge on the basis of the benefits you receive. See our website for help with applying for a blue badge.

Once you have got your blue badge, make sure you follow the blue badge parking rules, to avoid getting a parking ticket or a fine.  See further information here:
www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/help-for-disabled-travellers1/blue-badge-scheme/using-your-blue-badge/