People with non-visible disabilities will now be able to benefit from the Blue Badge Scheme, thanks to changes announced by North Swindon MP and Minister for Disabled People Justin Tomlinson.
The Department for Transport has issued new guidance to council’s in England which expands the Blue Badge criteria to include people with non-visible disabilities such as autism, anxiety, dementia, arthritis and Parkinson’s.
The changes aim to make it easier for people who find walking stressful and distressing by allowing them to park in disabled bays closer to their destination.
The move is part of the Government’s Inclusive Transport Strategy, which aims to ensure that people with disabilities can travel easily and with confidence. Through the strategy, the Government has set the very bold ambition of equal access for disabled people using the transport system by 2030.
Justin Tomlinson said: “This is a pivotal moment for thousands of people with hidden disabilities across the country, many of whom face unacceptable discrimination or even abuse when using disabled parking spaces.
The changes we’re making will be life-changing for people with non-visible disabilities, allowing them to go about their daily lives without experiencing unnecessary stress or worry.”
