Your child may need a Blue Badge if they have mobility challenge or a medical condition that make is unsafe or difficult for them to walk or travel without assistance.
These might include physical, or learning, disabilities or any health issue that requires constant access to emergency care or medical equipment.
To obtain a Blue Badge for a child or young person, they must meet certain specific criteria. Children aged two or older usually automatically qualify if they receive the higher rate of the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA), are registered blind, or receive certain disability-related benefits.
If your child does not automatically qualify, they might still be eligible if they have a substantial and enduring disability that causes significant difficulties with walking or requires constant care and supervision.
It is important to note that the Blue Badge should be used only when the child is travelling with the badge holder.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Automatic Qualification:
Children aged two or older automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if they:
- Receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Child Disability Payment.
- Are registered blind.
- Receive certain other disability benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with specific mobility criteria or Adult Disability Payment with specific mobility criteria, according to Contact: the charity for families with disabled children.
- Receive War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement.
- Received a lump sum payment as part of the Armed Forces Compensation scheme (tariffs 1 to 8) and have a permanent and substantial disability, according to GOV.UK.
- Non-automatic Qualification:
Children may still be eligible if they have a substantial and enduring conditions, including:
- Difficulty or inability to walk.
- Requiring constant supervision and care when walking.
- Having a medical condition that requires them always to be near a vehicle.
- Needing to carry bulky medical equipment.
What is the process of applying for a Blue Badge?
1. Check Eligibility:
Determine if your child is eligible based on the criteria above.
2. Gather Required Documents:
You will need:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport).
- Proof of address (e.g., Council Tax bill).
- A recent digital photo of your child.
- Any supporting evidence, such as medical reports, if required.
3. Apply Online or by Post:
- England and Wales: Apply online at GOV.UK.
- Scotland: Apply atmygov.scot.
- Other regions: Apply through your local council’s website or by post.
It can take up to three months to process an application, so it’s best to apply well in advance.
4. Assessment:
Your local council may decide to carry out an assessment to determine whether your child is eligible for a Blue Badge, and this may involve a telephone or in-person assessment.
5. Decision and Issue:
The council will notify you of the decision and, if approved, issue the Blue Badge.
