Latest news with #BlueBadges
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Warning to anyone with Blue Badge over ‘misunderstood rule' that could land you with £1,000 fine or see you lose permit
Scroll down to find out how to apply for a Blue Badge FARE GAME Warning to anyone with Blue Badge over 'misunderstood rule' that could land you with £1,000 fine or see you lose permit Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BLUE Badge holders have been issued a warning over a "misunderstood rule" that could leave drivers with a £1000 fine. The Blue Badge scheme was set up to help those with mobility issues by allowing them easier access to parking. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Blue Badges are given to those with mobility issues Credit: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Gett 2 Your Blue Badge must be clearly displayed Credit: Alamy However, there is often confusion over when it can be used, with recent figures from the RAC revealing that theft and misuse of Blue Badges has risen by a over 1000% since 2016. Where Can Blue Badge Holders Park? It is often wrongly assumed that having a Blue Badge allows you to park anywhere. However, this is not the case. Blue Badge holders are not permitted to park anywhere where their vehicle could endanger others or obstruct access, such as near junctions, bus stops, or the entrance to hospitals. Where To Display a Blue Badge Blue Badge holders must always ensure to display their badge clearly on the dashboard, with the relevant details on show. Some people mistakenly think that its OK to borrow a Blue Badge from someone, or use it whilst the holder is not present, but this is not the case. People who use someone else's Blue Badge, when the badge holder is not in the car could be subject to a £1000 fine. Using a badge that has expired and failing to return a badge that is no longer needed can also lead to hefty fines. How To Get A Blue Badge In England, Wales and Scotland, you can apply for a Blue Badge on the website. Some people qualify for the badge automatically, whilst others are assessed on an individual basis. My car was towed from disabled parking spot even though I have a badge - I had to pay £100s but it's the council's fault Local councils are in charge of assessing eligibility for badges, with applications taking up to 12 weeks. If the council decides you are not eligible for the badge, you can request them to reconsider your application. Badges in England cost £10, whilst in Scotland, they are priced at £20. Badges in Wales are free. Are you missing out on benefits? YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to Charity Turn2Us' benefits calculator works out what you could get. Entitledto's free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit. and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto's data. You can use Policy in Practice's calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you'll have left over each month after paying for housing costs. Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for. Blue Badges in England and Wales typically last for three years, after which holders must reapply. However, some badges are valid until the end of certain benefits, such as Personal Independence Payments. Reminders of expiration are not sent out to badge holders, so you have to keep an eye on the date yourself, and apply for renewal 12 weeks in advance.
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Warning to anyone with Blue Badge over ‘misunderstood rule' that could land you with £1,000 fine or see you lose permit
BLUE Badge holders have been issued a warning over a "misunderstood rule" that could leave drivers with a £1000 fine. The Blue Badge scheme was set up to help those with mobility issues by allowing them easier access to 2 Blue Badges are given to those with mobility issues Credit: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Gett 2 Your Blue Badge must be clearly displayed Credit: Alamy However, there is often confusion over when it can be used, with recent figures from the Where Can Blue Badge Holders Park? It is often wrongly assumed that having a Blue Badge allows you to park anywhere. However, this is not the case. Blue Badge holders are not permitted to park anywhere where their vehicle could endanger others or obstruct access, such as near junctions, bus stops, or the entrance to hospitals. Read more motors stories Where To Display a Blue Badge Blue Badge holders must always ensure to display their badge clearly on the dashboard, with the relevant details on show. Some people mistakenly think that its OK to borrow a Blue Badge from someone, or use it whilst the holder is not present, but this is not the case. People who use someone else's Blue Badge, when the badge holder is not in the car could be subject to a £1000 fine. Using a badge that has expired and failing to return a badge that is no longer needed can also lead to hefty fines. Most read in Fabulous How To Get A Blue Badge In England, Some people qualify for the badge automatically, whilst others are assessed on an individual basis. My car was towed from disabled parking spot even though I have a badge - I had to pay £100s but it's the council's fault Local councils are in charge of assessing eligibility for badges, with applications taking up to 12 weeks. If the council decides you are not eligible for the badge, you can request them to reconsider your application. Badges in England cost £10, whilst in Scotland, they are priced at £20. Badges in Wales are free. Are you missing out on benefits? YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to Charity Entitledto's and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto's data. You can use Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for. Blue Badges in England and Wales typically last for three years, after which holders must reapply. However, some badges are valid until the end of certain benefits, such as Personal Independence Payments . Reminders of expiration are not sent out to badge holders, so you have to keep an eye on the date yourself, and apply for renewal 12 weeks in advance.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
UK Blue Badge holders issued 'never assume' warning over parking in 7 places
Although the Blue Badge scheme does provide parking concessions to help disabled people get closer to their destinations, it doesn't permit them right to park anywhere Blue Badges provide a much-needed life-line for disabled people who drive, offering a number of hugely helpful benefits to holders. Getting around can be a significant challenge to begin with, so convenient on-street parking concessions make the world of difference for many drivers with disabilities. While some private or council car parks may offer free or extended parking to Blue Badge holders, this is not guaranteed, so be sure to check local signage or the relevant council website. Off-street locations including airports, hospitals, shopping centres and private car parks often enforce their own rules, which can differ significantly from council-operated on-street parking. Disabled parking permit holders must always comply with the Highway Code and local traffic regulations. With that in mind, here are seven specific places where parking with a Blue Badge is not permitted: Loading bays: Parking in loading bays is not allowed unless local signage explicitly permits Blue Badge holders to do so. These areas are reserved for vehicles actively loading or unloading goods. Resident or permit-only bays: Spaces reserved for specific users, such as residents or business permit holders, are generally off-limits. Always check for local exemptions, but do not assume access. Bus stops: Parking at bus stops is strictly prohibited. These areas must remain clear for public transport vehicles at all times. School 'keep clear' areas: Marked with yellow zig-zags, these zones are designed to keep children safe. Blue Badge holders cannot park here during the times indicated on the signage. Bus, tram or cycle lanes: Blue Badge holders cannot drive or park in bus, tram, or cycle lanes during their hours of operation. These lanes are reserved to keep public transport and cyclists moving efficiently and safely. Double white lines in the middle of the road: Parking is not allowed where double white lines are present, even if one line is broken. These markings indicate areas where stopping is dangerous or disruptive. Out-of-use parking metres: If a parking meter is out of service, parking is still not permitted, even with a Blue Badge. These spaces are considered unavailable until the metre is repaired. Aside from these specific locations, there are some general parking considerations to keep in mind. Even where parking is technically allowed, Blue Badge holders must not park where it would cause an obstruction or danger to other road users or pedestrians. This includes blocking driveways, emergency access points, or parking on pavements unless specifically permitted. Some local councils, especially in central London, have unique rules and require additional permits, so always check local regulations before parking. The Blue Badge scheme is a vital support for disabled motorists, but it still comes with certain responsibilities. But be sure to check local rules, signage, relevant websites and the Highway Code to ensure you don't get stung with penalties or lose your parking privileges.
Wales Online
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Wales Online
The four precautions Blue Badge holders must take when parking to avoid £130 fine
The four precautions Blue Badge holders must take when parking to avoid £130 fine Experts say that, contrary to popular belief, the blue badge scheme does not allow drivers to park anywhere There are a wide range of conditions and restrictions (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto ) Blue badge holders have been warned that they could potentially be fined £130 when parking if four proper precautions aren't taken. Experts say that, contrary to popular belief, the blue badge scheme does not allow drivers to park anywhere. There are a wide range of conditions and restrictions and these can vary by factors such as the location you are parking in or the time of day. Drivers also need to use the badge correctly to be entitled to accessible locations or payment-free parking. Matt Fieldhouse, group managing director and accessible car expert at Mobility in Motion , explained that badge holders need to check these four things before parking to avoid a potential £130 fine. Acknowledge regional parking differences Mr Fieldhouse said: 'While the Blue Badge scheme is valid for parking across the whole of the UK, it is important to note that not every area will have the same rules. "For example, if you are travelling to London, there are different local regulations to follow when it comes to specific boroughs, including: City of London, e.g. Blue Badge holders cannot park on double yellow lines in this area. City of Westminster - the blue badge scheme doesn't apply here due to huge amounts of congestion and high parking demand. Kensington and Chelsea - again, the scheme isn't upheld here due to large amounts of congestion. "Outside of London, there are also different regulations that blue badge holders must check before parking at popular holiday destinations: "While Lake District car parks do have Blue Badge holder spaces, their charges apply to all vehicles - including those with Blue Badges. However, they do also allow an extra hour for blue badge holders. "When visiting the Cotswolds, valid Blue Badge holders may park free of charge in most of the Cotswold District Council car parks up to the maximum stay of that car park. The one car park they must pay to park in, however, is the Market Square car park in Chipping Campden. "It is crucial that you check first where you can park with a Blue Badge on the government website to prevent a parking ticket, or on the local council's website if you're parking in Scotland.' Never assume you can park anywhere Mr Fieldhouse said: 'Private land (like airports or hospital car parks) often have their own rules. Some car parks or town centres may offer free parking for badge holders, but you should always check local signage or the council website before relying on this. "Ultimately, you still have to abide by the Highway Code. For example, Blue Badge holders cannot park in loading bays, where parking is only for certain people, e.g. the people who live or work there, bus stops, school 'keep clear' areas, bus, tram or cycle lanes - Blue Badge holders cannot drive in bus lanes during their hours of operation, where there are double white lines in the middle of the road, or where there is a parking meter, but it is out of use." Parking on double yellow lines without the clock can cost you £80 The expert explained: 'Blue Badge holders can park on double yellow lines for up to 3 hours if there are no other restrictions, such as a loading ban. However, you should never forget to display your parking clock clearly showing your 15-minute arrival time. Once drivers leave the spot, they must wait at least one hour before parking in the same place again. Failing to do these things can result in fines of up to £80.' Always remember to display the badge properly - or risk £130 He added: 'Make sure that the blue badge is clearly visible from outside the vehicle. It is important to remember that the front-side of the badge should permanently be on show, not the photo side. An incorrectly displayed badge can result in a parking fine, even if the driver is entitled to be there - costing UK drivers up to £130, if they're parking in London. "Important note: Police officers, traffic wardens and some other people may ask to see your blue badge at any point. This also includes civil enforcement officers, who may be in plain clothes. Article continues below While you do have to show your blue badge to these members of authority upon request, you do also have the right to ask them for their ID first.'
Daily Mirror
28-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
DWP list of free support and discounts you can get if you're claiming PIP
PIP is a disability benefit that is awarded to people who need help with everyday tasks due to an illness, disability or mental health condition If you claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) then you should be aware of all the extra support you could be entitled to. PIP is a disability benefit that is awarded to people who need help with everyday tasks due to an illness, disability or mental health condition. You are scored on how your condition affects your life, rather than PIP being awarded just because you have a particular illness or disability. The disability benefit and the maximum weekly payment you can get sits at £187.45 a week. It is paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). But alongside the benefit, claimants can also claim multiple different extra support to help them with their daily lives. This can include Blue Badges, capped water bills, and council tax discounts. Here we highlight just some of the discounts and support you can get. Blue Badge A Blue Badge is a permit that allows disabled people to park closer to their destination. You can apply for your Blue Badge from your local council. They are sometimes free, although some councils do charge. If there is a fee, it is typically £10. To be eligible, you'll need to have a disability that limits your movement and ability to walk. You can also get one if you are registered blind. Capped water bills You may be entitled to help with your water bill if you claim PIP through the WaterSure Scheme. To be eligible, someone in your household needs to use a lot of water due to your medical condition. The exact eligibility varies between water suppliers, so it is best to get in touch with your utility provider to see what help it can offer you. Council tax discounts You might be able to get a council tax discount if you claim PIP. The exact eligibility criteria again depends on your local council - so contact your local authority as soon as possible to find out if you're entitled to support. If you're classed as "severely mentally impaired" and you live alone, then you could be exempt from paying council tax. Disability premium If you claim PIP and other benefits, you may be entitled to additional top-ups, known as disability premium. You have to be claiming one of the following benefits: Housing Benefit Jobseeker's Allowance Employment and Support Allowance Pension Credit There are three different types of disability premiums: Disability premium £43.20 a week for a single person £61.65 a week for a couple Severe disability premium £82.90 a week for a single person £165.80 a week for a couple if you're both eligible Some couples will be eligible for the lower amount of £81.50 a week instead Enhanced disability premium £21.20 a week for a single person £30.25 a week for a couple if at least one of you is eligible Free grant to improve your home You can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant if you're disabled and need to make changes to your home. For example, if you need to widen doors and install ramps or rails. You will need to be assessed to check your eligibility for the support. If you live in England you can get up to £30,000 worth of support, up to £36,000 in Wales and up to £25,000 in Northern Ireland. Some councils may give more. You can apply through your local council which must give you a decision within six months. The grants are not available for households in Scotland. Free prescriptions You may be entitled to free NHS prescriptions by getting a Medical Exemption Certificate if you have a specified medical condition and claim PIP. According to the NHS website, the conditions which are eligible for a medical exemption card include: a permanent fistula (for example, caecostomy, colostomy, laryngostomy or ileostomy) which needs continuous surgical dressing or an appliance a form of hypoadrenalism (for example, Addison's Disease) for which specific substitution therapy is essential diabetes insipidus and other forms of hypopituitarism diabetes mellitus, except where treatment is by diet alone hypoparathyroidism myasthenia gravis myxoedema (that is, hypothyroidism which needs thyroid hormone replacement) epilepsy which needs continuous anticonvulsive therapy a continuing physical disability which means you cannot go out without the help of another person cancer and are undergoing treatment for either cancer, the effects of cancer, or the effects of cancer treatment Help with brand-new car If you've been awarded the enhanced rate of the mobility component of PIP then you could be eligible for help with leasing a car through the Motability Scheme. This is where you can trade some or all of your PIP earnings toward the cost of a brand-new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair. Insurance, tax and servicing are all included. You can look into the scheme and the selection of the vehicles available through the Motability Scheme website. Vehicle tax reduction If you're receiving the standard rate mobility component of PIP you can get a 50% reduction in vehicle tax. To get the discount, the vehicle you're getting reduced tax on must be registered in the disabled person's name or their nominated driver's name. You can claim this discount when applying for vehicle tax. If you receive the mobility component at the enhanced rate, you can apply for a complete vehicle tax exemption instead - meaning you get a 100% discount. Toll roads and travel discounts The majority of toll roads and congestion schemes in the UK offer a concession to disabled people, such as those who claim the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP. This discount includes river crossings, bridges and tunnels. People who claim PIP can also get a Disabled Person's Bus Pass and a Disabled Person's Railcard. The bus pass is managed by local councils as part of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme. You can contact your local council on how to get one. The railcard costs £20 per year or £54 for three years. It gives you a third off rail travel and the average annual savings are around £91.
