Christmases with Ben were filled with music
Janet shares her experience caring for husband Ben and how they maintained the joy of Christmas after his diagnosis.
A Blue Badge is a parking permit that allows people with disabilities or health conditions to park closer to their destination, often free of charge. If you or the person you care for have dementia, you may be able to get a Blue Badge.
People with a Blue Badge – whether they are the driver or passenger – can park free of charge on the street:
You may be able to park in other places using your Blue Badge but you should always check if there are any restrictions, as there may be different rules. For example:
Blue Badge holders are also exempt from the London congestion charge.
For a full guide to Blue Badge rules visit:
A diagnosis of dementia doesn’t automatically mean a person is entitled to a Blue Badge, but many people with dementia will qualify.
Some people automatically qualify for a Blue Badge based on benefits they receive. These are people who:
Other people may be eligible for a Blue Badge depending on their circumstances. For example, a person with dementia may qualify for a Blue Badge if:
In England, Wales and Scotland, you can apply for a Blue Badge at gov.uk.
In Northern Ireland, you should apply at nidirect.gov.uk.
Some councils will let you apply on paper.
You’ll need to provide:
If you automatically qualify for a Blue Badge based on receiving benefits, you will need to provide proof of these benefits.
If you are applying without benefits, eg if you have a hidden disability like dementia, you will be asked to provide details of:
If you are applying without benefits, your local council will decide whether you can have a Blue Badge, and you may need to provide further information. The decision usually takes around 12 weeks.
A Blue Badge costs up to £10 in England, £20 in Scotland, £10 in Northern Ireland, and is free in Wales.
They usually last three years; if you wish to renew it, you should apply before your current one expires.
When using your Blue Badge, you must:
You can use it if you are the driver, passenger, or if someone needs to park so they can drop you off or collect you.
You must not:
If you need advice on any aspect of dementia, please call the Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 (Monday-Friday 9am-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm, every day except 25th December), email helpline@dementiauk.org or you can also book a phone or virtual appointment with an Admiral Nurse.
Our free, confidential Dementia Helpline is staffed by our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses who provide information, advice and support with any aspect of dementia.
Janet shares her experience caring for husband Ben and how they maintained the joy of Christmas after his diagnosis.
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