Number: 45/19
20th June 2019
Changes to Blue Badges
Blue Badges are a lifeline for disabled people, giving them the freedom and confidence to get to work and visit friends independently. The scheme already means people with physical disabilities can park closer to their destination than other drivers.
But with effect from the 30th August, new rules come into effect which will enable people with other, sometimes hidden disabilities, to be able to apply for a badge.
Just leaving the house is a challenge for many autistic people, involving detailed preparation – and sometimes overwhelming anxiety about plans going wrong. And some might not be aware of the dangers of the road or may become overwhelmed by busy or loud environments. Quite often, the possibility of not being able to find a parking space near where they’re going can mean they can’t contemplate leaving the house at all.
The new guidance, which represents the biggest change to the scheme in 50 years, will offer a lifeline to people who often find road travel difficult and help many to reduce loneliness and isolation. To coincide with this, a task group will be set up to help local authorities tackle fraudulent use of the badges, and help the public to understand that the people using a badge may not immediately appear to need one.
These changes will make a huge difference to thousands of people with non-visible disabilities, enabling them to enjoy the freedoms that many people take for granted.
More information can be found at.
https://leasing.com/car-leasing-news/blue-badge-hidden-disabilities-changes-2019/
