Travel benefits for veterans
The Joining Forces programme has now ended There are several travel concessions and benefits available to veterans,...
If you or your passenger has severe mobility problems, the Blue Badge scheme lets you park nearer your destination than you might otherwise be able to.
A Blue Badge can give you exemption from some parking restrictions and access to designated parking spaces.
The badge is for your use only. If someone else is picking you up or dropping you off they will be able to use it, but you can’t lend it to someone to go and do shopping for you, for example.
If you no longer need the badge, you must return it to the council.
You should automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if one or more of these criteria apply to you:
If you don’t automatically qualify you may still be able to get a Blue Badge if:
For more examples, visit the government website.
You can apply for or renew your Blue Badge online at GOV.UK. Some councils also let you apply on a paper form - contact your local council to check.
Before you apply, make sure you have:
Depending what you put on the application form, you may need to provide additional information. You might have to give further information on any medication you take, treatments you receive and letters from health professionals.
The council may ask to carry out further assessments to decide if you’re eligible.
Only your local council or GOV.UK can issue you a genuine Blue Badge. Don't use any other ways to apply and if you think you've been scammed you should report it.
It can take up to three months to process your application, depending on your council and whether you need further assessment. It’s best to ask them how long it’s likely to take when you apply.
If your application is refused, your local council should tell you why. If you don’t think all the important information was considered, you can ask them to reconsider your case.
If your mobility problems become more serious, you can reapply.
Blue Badge holders are exempt from certain parking restrictions, including being allowed to park:
Some local councils put additional restrictions on Blue Badge holders. You should check with the local council in the area you’re travelling to find out what their rules are. The scheme does not apply in certain boroughs in London, which offer their own parking concessions.
To find Blue Badge parking bays across the UK, check the GOV UK website.
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 125 local Age UKs.
The Joining Forces programme has now ended There are several travel concessions and benefits available to veterans,...
Arthritis is a common condition which causes joint pain and inflammation. If you have arthritis, there’s support...
You might be entitled to public transport concessions, such as a free bus pass.
If you're disabled you could be entitled to free travel on local buses or discounts on your rail journeys. Disabled...