My Grandad who is 76 has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, he struggles with long distance and I was wondering if he is entitled to a blue badge for his car and parking. Any advice or info would be greatly apprciated thank you in advance.
I have been asked to apply fr a blue badge by my nurse (I haven`t as I didn`t feel like need one - there are obviously people who needs more helps with mobility). I have also received medical exception card for prescriptions etc.
This is the information I have found - you can also go to your local counsil or on the website gov.uk to get all infirmation needed.
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For many of us claiming benefits during cancer is something we don’t do because we don’t think we are eligible, we don’t think it’s the right thing to do, or we just don’t have the energy – mental or physical - to go through all that form filling.
Too often it’s the case that GPs and nurses say nothing about these things or mention it late in the day as an afterthought, but you could really be missing out on something to which you are entitled, which is rightfully yours, and which can be immensely helpful at a time when you are likely to be incurring additional costs – e.g. for prescriptions, parking, heating, wigs/hats, help with household work to name but a few.
An associate of mine who has recently been through cancer treatment has highlighted at least four key benefits that people affected by cancer should be aware of:
NHS Medical Exemption Certificate
The Blue Badge scheme
Employee Support Allowance
The Equality Act (not a benefit but an important protection)
NHS Medical Exemption Certificate
In Scotland and Wales NHS prescriptions are free but this is not the case in England. However, in England all people undergoing treatment for cancer, or the effects of cancer or its treatment are exempt from charges for at least 5 years after diagnosis. You can apply through your GP surgery.or oncology clinic using form FP92A
The Blue Badge Scheme (or equivalent)
If you are undergoing cancer treatment – especially chemotherapy – you will be able to apply for a Blue Badge (or similar – some parts of London have different colour badges). Remember you don’t have to be the driver to use one. When you are exhausted because of the effects of treatment, being able to park near to your destination is immensely helpful. You apply for this from your local authority, it takes about ten days to arrive and it is usually valid for at least one year.
Employee Support Allowance (ESA)
You can apply for ESA if you’re employed, self-employed or unemployed. If the former, you may be able to apply for Employment and Support Allowance if you’re not eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or your SSP has ended or is coming to an end. You apply via your local Job Centre Plus and if you make it clear you are having cancer treatment they should complete the form for you over the phone.
ESA is particularly helpful if you are self-employed, cannot work due to your illness, and have been paying your National Insurance contributions, because you will be eligible to ESA of up to £57.35 a week if you’re aged under 25 and up to £72.40 a week if you’re aged 25 or over.
After 13 weeks of receiving ESA at the basic rate, if you are receiving, waiting for or recovering from chemotherapy or radiotherapy, you will be placed in what is called ‘the support group’ and receive up to £108.15 a week. What is more there’s no time limit on how long you can claim contribution-based ESA if you’re in the support group.
The Equality Act (2010)
Last but not least, do remember that you are protected against discrimination, harassment or victimisation because of your cancer both at work and during the recruitment process. The protection lasts from the point of diagnosis for the rest of your life, even when you are declared cured.
For more information about benefits and managing the cost of cancer, I recommend you get hold of the Macmillan pamphlet ‘Help with the Cost of Cancer’ or ring their helpline."
Info above relating to the Blue Badge scheme is incorrect.
Having cancer treatment does not mean you will be eligible for an automatic Blue Badge. You are able to apply but must have a walking difficulty as indicated on the application form. Anyone holding a DS1500 form will get an automatic badge without payment and this is valid for 3 years. The only reason a badge would be issued for less than 3 years is if the holder is in receipt of PIP award which has an end date on it.
Info above relating to the Blue Badge scheme is incorrect.
Having cancer treatment does not mean you will be eligible for an automatic Blue Badge. You are able to apply but must have a walking difficulty as indicated on the application form. Anyone holding a DS1500 form will get an automatic badge without payment and this is valid for 3 years. The only reason a badge would be issued for less than 3 years is if the holder is in receipt of PIP award which has an end date on it.
