It is very unlikely that you neighbour will get a Blue Badge under the new centrally administered scheme which was introduced to reduce widespread abuse of the scheme simply for being unable to walk.You do need to be in receipt of one or more of a number of closely defined benefits to qualify for one automatically. As example the HIGHER rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance quailfies but the lower rate mobility component, if received in isolation, does not.This is rather academic as DLA can only be paid if your claim started before your 65th birthday, after which time one can apply for Attendance Allowance ( AA,see below).The council can issue a discretionary Blue Badge if you neighbour can supply supporting and current, medical evidence of a condition which prevents him walking when they complete the application. He may need to attend for an assessment of his ability to walk, this is not with the Council but an external agency. To get the higher rate of AA you neighbour must have a physical or mental disability that is severe enough for them to need attention, which includes help with things such as washing, dressing or eating; help with communication; encouragement and prompting to look after themself or to do something; or help with reading if he has a visual impairment. He can also claim if he needs supervision to avoid them putting themself or others in substantial danger.Simply being old is not a qualifying factor . The car does not need to be registered to him but if a Blue Badge is being displayed the person to whom the badge is issued must either be driving or a passenger in it.The application form and full guidance notes are on this link.http://www.ealing.gov.uk/info/200022/community_transport/163/blue_badge_scheme/4
Nigel Brooks ● 4799d