Blue Badge

In the run up to publication of my new book Carers and Caring; the One Stop Guide; how to care for older relatives and friends, I am sharing some of the practical solutions learned from research and experience. If you think any problems have been missed you can email me and tell me, and I’ll make sure they are covered in the next edition and online on my website at www.juneandrews.net. Today’s hints are brief!

Benefits of a blue badge

Having a Blue Badge card is a tremendous benefit when you are going out and about with the person you are caring for. That’s the badge that gives you the right to park closer to your destination, often in a designated spot for Blue Badge users. Unfortunately, so many people have misused this service that it takes a while to get approval (up to twelve weeks) and it is sometimes tedious trying to get a badge. If you want to apply for one, the details are here on the government website at www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge The pass usually lasts for three years, and you must apply for a new one before the current badge expires. It is linked to the person who is being cared for rather than a vehicle, so it can be used in any car by anyone who is transporting that person while they are travelling as a passenger. Or they can use it themselves if they are still driving.

Disabled spaces

The badge usually lets you park free on streets with parking meters or pay-and-display machines, but you have to check for local variations. The badge holder can also park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours in many places. You can ask the local council to create a special disabled space outside your home. Your GP will be able to provide information that helps the application, especially if you are registered as a carer.

 There is much more about transport in  Carers and Caring: The One-Stop Guide: How to care for older relatives and friends - with tips for managing finances and accessing the right support  available from all good bookshops in May 2022.

Three hints:

1.     Get registered as a carer with your GP

2.     Apply for the badge

3.     Reapply in good time