Blue Badges
What are they?
The Blue Badge Scheme makes parking easier for disabled people. It used to be called the Orange Badge Scheme. The scheme allows badge holders to park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours, and to park for as long as they like where others may park for only a limited time. In Neath Port Talbot Council car parks, badge holders can park free.
Who qualifies for a Blue Badge?
You can have a Blue Badge if you:
- receive the higher rate of the Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance or
- are registered blind or
- have a permanent and substantial disability which means you are unable to walk or have very considerable difficulty in walking (we may ask your doctor to confirm this) or
- have a severe disability in both upper limbs, regularly drive a motor vehicle, but cannot turn the steering wheel of a motor vehicle by hand even if it is fitted with a turning knob or
- you use a vehicle supplied for disabled people by a Government Department, or get a War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
If you have severe walking difficulties you can apply for a badge whether you travel as a passenger or a driver.
Is there a charge?
There is a charge of £2 for the badge, which lasts for three years. You will also need to give us two passport size photographs of yourself.
How do I apply?
You can contact your local Area Office or for the appropriate extension call (01639) 763333 for an application form and return it to us. We will ask to see any paperwork which shows that you qualify, such as a letter from the Benefits Agency about your DLA. If you don't have this, but you are applying because you have difficulty walking, then we will write to your doctor and ask him or her to confirm that you need a badge.
What happens when the badge expires?
After three years, your badge will expire. The date it will expire is stamped on the badge. If you want to renew it, you will have to get in touch with us - we won't send you a reminder. We may ask you again for proof that you need a badge, unless we already know that you have a condition which is permanent and not likely to get better.
More information
When you get your badge, we will give you a leaflet explaining more about when and where you can use it.
If you want information about other services available for disabled people or older people, please ask at your local Social Services Area Office.