Disabled people, especially those with mobility aids, have a few extra hurdles to jump through when it comes to transportation of any kind. Whether it be by bus, by train, or by personal vehicle, you still need to have certain accommodations made. Luckily, these accommodations are already made available in most situations. Busses and trains are accessible, and there is special parking available for the vehicles of people with disabilities Not only that, but did you know that there are discounts, and often free transportation, to disabled people? This article will detail how to get an accessible blue badge for your personal vehicle, as well as a disabled person’s railcard and bus pass.
Blue Badge
Your blue badge is something you display with your vehicle that allows you to park in designated parking spots, often closer to entrances. These badges are easily obtained here. The accessible parking spaces have room to the side and sometimes rear of the vehicle, making entering and exiting safer and easier. Because these spaces are limited, it’s illegal to park in them without the badge, as well as the sectioned off areas around them.
Remember, not everyone who has the badge has a visible disability. Just because someone looks fine on the outside doesn’t mean they don’t qualify for the badge. The person may be having a good day, but still can’t walk far. Or maybe they’re going to pick someone up who does need the space.
Bus Pass
A disabled person’s bus pass entitles you to free accessible bus transportation on local busses in England, though other parts of the UK have their own passes. Unfortunately the providers for these passes vary by where you live in England, so check here to see if you qualify and how to apply.
Railcards
A disabled persons railcard does not give you free rides like the bus pass, but does give discounts. The card needs to be renewed every 1-3 years, depending on which option you choose. For more information, go to this website for a full breakdown. You may qualify for a railcard if you:
- receive a disability related benefit, including Personal Independence Payment
- are registered as deaf or use a hearing aid
- receive Attendance Allowance
- are registered as having a visual impairment
- receive Severe Disablement Allowance
- have epilepsy
- receive War Pensioner’s mobility supplement
- receive War or Service Disablement pension
Community Transport
There are other modes of transportation if any of these do not work. For example, social cars, dial-a-ride, or taxicard schemes. There are shopmobility schemes that could even lend scooters and wheelchairs for around town centers. These services can vary depending on location, so check the website before relying on it being at your destination.
Getting around town, and even to another town, can be difficult with a disability. You’ve got to plan ahead and make sure your entire trip is as accessible as possible. Hopefully, with these resources you can make sure your trips are more accessible to you.
