Copyright dailyrecord
Eleven groups of people automatically qualify for a Blue Badge, which can be used when travelling as either a driver in their own vehicle or as a passenger in any other car. This includes people who are registered blind (or severely sight-impaired), those on the higher level of the mobility rate for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Child Disability Payment (CDP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA). However, the Scottish Government has published a comprehensive list of circumstances which could see people with hidden conditions, walking issues or parents caring for a disabled child, qualify for a Blue Badge. Applications for a Blue Badge can be made online, however the guidance advises that people with a mental condition need to contact their local council directly. This is because they may need an assessment before a Blue Badge can be issued. The guidance states: “If you have a mental condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic, you cannot apply online. You should phone your local council's Blue Badge team for a paper application form.” The guidance also advises that those who do not automatically qualify for the Blue Badge scheme may need to have a mobility assessment and a meeting with a healthcare professional. If you have a physical disability or health condition that affects your ability to walk safely, or have a hidden condition such as a heart condition, dementia, ADHD, epilepsy, chronic fatigue or Parkinson's, you may be able to get a Blue Badge to help you park closer to the places you want to go. There are currently more than 235,700 Blue Badge holders living in Scotland and in many cases, people will automatically qualify for the £20 parking permit. An estimated 3.2 million people benefit from the scheme across the UK. It’s also worth noting that there is no set processing time for new applications or Blue Badge renewals, but it can take around 12 weeks - but it usually around 10 working days. Your local council processes Blue Badge applications and sets the price - they will also be able to advise on how long it might take. Below is a brief overview of the Blue Badge application process. Full details can be found on MYGOV.SCOT here. You will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge in Scotland if you: If you are not automatically eligible, you may be able to get a Blue Badge in certain circumstances, if you: You can use your Blue Badge to park in certain restricted areas for free, including: You can use your Blue Badge in most other countries. If you're using your Blue Badge in England or Wales you will need to use a parking clock - this comes with your Blue Badge. The Timer Clock is a plastic dial with hands that can be adjusted to show the time of parking arrival. Applications are made online to your local council and you’ll need a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders - you can take this picture yourself. You will also need a photo or scan of your: You will also need to know: Once you apply, your local council will process your application and give you a decision. Your local council should tell you why you’re not eligible. You can ask them to reconsider their decision if you think they haven’t taken into account some important information. You can also reapply if your disability or health condition becomes more serious. Apply for a Blue Badge on the mygov.scot website here .
