Getting a Blue Badge With Epilepsy (And Other Benefits You Could Claim)
17th February 2022
Many people with epilepsy will often wonder about their right to claim certain benefits, including the blue badge scheme. The blue badge scheme was set up in the UK to help people with disabilities and enable them to park as close to their intended destination as possible.
Once a blue badge has been issued it can be used to park for free in disabled spaces and on-street parking, and in public car parks where there is a pay and display machine (private car parks are exempt but will often honour the badge). The badge can only be used when the badge holder is driving or is a passenger in the car.
Do I Qualify for a Blue Badge With Epilepsy?
Many people with epilepsy are eligible to claim a blue badge, however, there are eligibility criteria which must be met before a badge can be issued. There is automatic qualification for a badge for people who are aged 2 years and older if the following criteria are met:
- You scored 12 points or over in the ‘planning and following journeys’ part of your mobility assessment for PIP
- You have had a mandatory consideration for PIP accepted by DWP
- You have received a higher rate for the mobility component for DLA indefinitely
You may also qualify for a blue badge if you have a permanent disability that means you are:
- Unable to walk
- Unable to walk long distances without experiencing considerable difficulty (pain, breathlessness)
In these cases the assessment would be made based on ability to walk rather than the presence of a condition or illness.
People with hidden disabilities can also qualify for a blue badge under the following criteria:
- Walking can be considered dangerous for your wellbeing
- You post a risk to yourself or others near vehicles or in car parks
- You lack the awareness of the impact your actions can have on yourself or others
Criteria can differ between England, Scotland and Wales. If you do not meet the criteria above, you may still be eligible, speak to your local authority for more information and to start the application process. You can also apply online via the government website.
Other Benefits You May Be Eligible to Claim
Aside from a blue badge, there are a number of other benefits that people with epilepsy may be eligible to claim. The list below outlines a number of schemes to research:
Get help with work-related costs that arise as a requirement to complete your job.
Get help with personal care if you have a disability after state pension age.
If you care for someone with epilepsy, you may be entitled to carers allowance.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
DLA can help with any additional costs of looking after a child with a disability.
Get help if you need to make changes to your home to aid your disability.
Get up to a third off rail fares with a disabled person’s railcard.
Payments for people who’s illness or disability renders them unable to work.
If you have been refused a driving licence, you could be entitled to a free bus pass.
If you take medication for your epilepsy, you are eligible for free prescriptions.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Help with the extra costs associated with living with a long term disability.
If you are on low income, out of work or you can’t work, universal credit can help.
