What is the Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge is a parking permit for people with disabilities or health conditions that make walking difficult. It allows you to park closer to your destination, often in designated bays or on-street spaces where parking restrictions usually apply. The scheme operates across the UK, although rules can vary slightly depending on whether you live in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
Who Can Get a Blue Badge?
You will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you:
- Receive the higher rate mobility component of - Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with certain mobility descriptors
- Are registered blind
- Receive a War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Receive Armed Forces Compensation Scheme awards with mobility support
You may also be eligible if you have a long-term condition that makes walking very difficult, if you frequently have difficulty planning or following journeys (for example, due to a cognitive impairment), or if you have severe problems using both arms. In these cases, you may need to go through a further assessment as part of your application.
How to Apply
You apply through your local council in England, Scotland, or Wales. In Northern Ireland, applications go through the Department for Infrastructure. The simplest way to start is to apply online via the GOV.UK website, which directs your claim to the right authority.
When you apply, you’ll usually need:
- Proof of identity (such as a passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address (for example, a utility bill)
- A recent passport-style photograph
- Details of your disability or medical condition, including supporting documents if you have them
Some councils may ask for additional evidence, or invite you to an independent mobility assessment if your eligibility is not automatic.
How Long Does It Last?
A Blue Badge usually lasts for up to three years. When it expires, you need to reapply. If you no longer meet the criteria, your badge will not be renewed.
Cost
There is a small fee to issue a Blue Badge. In England, it is up to £10, and in Scotland it is £20. In Wales, badges are free.
Where You Can Use It
With a Blue Badge, you can usually park:
- In designated disabled bays
- On single or double yellow lines (for up to three hours, unless signs say otherwise)
- In pay-and-display bays without charge, in many areas
Rules do vary depending on local councils, so it’s important to check the specific guidance where you live. Misusing a badge, for example by lending it to someone else, can result in a fine.
In Summary
The Blue Badge scheme is designed to help people with serious mobility difficulties park closer to where they need to go. You can apply online or through your local council, and if your eligibility isn’t automatic you may be assessed. Badges usually last three years, and there is a small fee depending on where you live.
What is Adult Disability Payment (ADP)?
Adult Disability Payment is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit offered to residents of Scotland aged 16 to State Pension age who have a disability, long-term health condition, or are terminally ill. It replaces Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for working-age adults in Scotland.
The benefit is administered by Social Security Scotland, not the DWP.
Who Can Claim?
- You may be eligible if:
- You are aged 16 or over and under State Pension age
- You live in Scotland
- You have a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months
- You are terminally ill
People already receiving PIP or DLA will be moved over to ADP automatically — you don’t need to make a new claim.
How Much Can You Get?
Daily Living Component
Standard rate: £68.10 per week
Enhanced rate: £101.75 per week
Mobility Component
Standard rate: £26.90 per week
Enhanced rate: £71.00 per week
You may qualify for one or both components depending on how your condition affects your daily life and mobility.
How to Claim
You can apply in three ways:
Online through mygov.scot
By phone on 0800 182 2222
On paper, by requesting a form from Social Security Scotland
The application has two stages:
- Part 1 confirms your basic details and eligibility.
- Part 2 asks for information about how your condition affects you, and supporting evidence from healthcare professionals or carers
If you are terminally ill, there is a fast-track application process.
Payments are backdated to the date you submit Part 1 of your application.
How Payments Work
- Paid every 4 weeks in arrears (or weekly in advance if you are terminally ill).
- Tax-free and not affected by income, savings, or employment.
- May increase entitlement to other benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance.
If You Disagree with a Decision
If you think a decision about your claim is wrong, you can ask for what is called a re-determination. This is a full review of your application. If you are still unhappy after that, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. Payments normally continue while your case is being reconsidered.
In Summary
Adult Disability Payment is Scotland’s replacement for PIP and DLA, offering financial support to people with long-term health conditions or disabilities. It is available from age 16 to State Pension age, is not means-tested, and is paid every four weeks. How much you get depends on how your condition affects your daily living and mobility. Applications are straightforward to start and help is available if you need support with the forms.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a UK benefit that helps people who are on a low income or out of work. It combines several older benefits into a single monthly payment, including Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and Tax Credits.
Unlike PIP or DLA, Universal Credit is means-tested. That means the amount you receive depends on your earnings, savings, and household circumstances.
Who can get it?
You may be able to claim UC if you:
- are 18 or over (some 16–17 year olds can claim in special cases)
- are under State Pension age
- live in the UK
- have savings of less than £16,000 (yours and your partner’s combined, if you live together)
You can apply whether you are unemployed, in part-time or full-time work, or self-employed.
How much do you get?
Everyone who claims UC gets a standard allowance each month. The amount depends on your age and whether you’re single or part of a couple.
- Single and under 25: £311.68 per month
- Single and 25 or over: £393.45 per month
- Couple, both under 25: £489.23 per month (for both)
- Couple, one or both 25 or over: £617.60 per month (for both)
On top of this, you may qualify for extra amounts, called elements. These can cover things like:
- children in your household
- housing costs (rent or mortgage support)
- disability or limited capability for work
- caring for someone with a disability
- childcare costs (up to 85% of what you pay)
How do you claim?
Most people apply online through the GOV.UK website. You’ll need your National Insurance number, bank details, housing information, and details about your income and any savings.
Once your application is in, you’ll set up an online account (journal) to manage your claim. You’ll also need to confirm your identity and usually attend an interview (either at a Jobcentre or over the phone).
At this appointment you agree to a Claimant Commitment – a list of things you’re expected to do, such as job searching, reporting changes, or preparing for work.
Payments
It usually takes five weeks to get your first Universal Credit payment. If you need money sooner, you can ask for an advance payment, though this is repaid in instalments from future UC payments. After that, UC is paid monthly into your bank account (in Scotland you can choose to be paid twice a month).
Work requirements
Your responsibilities depend on your situation. Some people are expected to look for work or increase their hours, while others (for example, those with health problems or caring responsibilities) may have fewer or no work-related requirements. If you’re too unwell to work, you may need to complete a Work Capability Assessment.
If you disagree with a decision
If you think your payment or entitlement has been worked out incorrectly, you can ask the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month of the decision. If you’re still unhappy, you can take your case to an independent tribunal.
In summary
Universal Credit is the main benefit for working-age people who are struggling financially, whether they’re in or out of work. It’s designed to give one monthly payment that covers basic living costs, with extra amounts available for children, housing, disability, and caring.
What is DLA?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a UK benefit designed to help with the extra costs of looking after a child who has a disability or health condition.
Important:
- Adults can no longer make new claims for DLA.
- If you’re aged 16 or over and need help with daily living or mobility, you’ll need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead.
- Children under 16 may still be eligible for Child DLA.
Who can get Child DLA?
Your child may qualify if they:
- Are under 16 years old.
- Live in England, Wales, or Scotland (Northern Ireland has its own system).
- Have lived in Great Britain for at least 6 months out of the last year (different if terminally ill).
- Need substantially more care, attention, or supervision than a child of the same age without a disability.
- Or have mobility difficulties.
You can claim DLA whether you work or not. It is not means-tested (your income and savings don’t affect it).
What does DLA cover?
DLA has two parts (components):
1. Care Component – for help with personal care and supervision.
- Lowest rate – £29.70 per week (some help needed).
- Middle rate – £76.90 per week (frequent help or supervision needed).
- Highest rate – £115.60 per week (constant help or supervision, or if child is terminally ill).
2. Mobility Component – for help with getting around.
- Lower rate – £29.70 per week (some guidance/supervision needed outdoors).
- Higher rate – £81.50 per week (severe mobility difficulties, or can’t walk).
(Amounts are weekly rates as of 2025.)
How to Claim Child DLA
Step 1: Get a Claim Form
You can download a form or request one by phone from the Disability Living Allowance helpline:
0800 121 4600 (textphone 0800 121 4523).
Step 2: Fill in the Claim Form
- The form asks about your child’s condition, the help they need, and how this is different from other children their age.
- Include supporting medical evidence if you can (letters from doctors, specialists, care plans).
Step 3: Send the Form
- Post the completed form to the address provided on the form.
- Claims are usually backdated to the date you requested the form.
What happens next?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will review your claim.
You’ll get a letter telling you:
- If your child is eligible.
- Which component(s) they qualify for and at what rate.
If you disagree with a decision
- You can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month of the decision.
- If needed, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Key Tips
- Focus on what extra care or supervision your child needs compared to other children their age.
- Use real-life examples (e.g., “My child needs help feeding themselves at every meal” vs. “A typical child their age eats independently”).
- Keep a diary of your child’s needs — this can strengthen your claim.
What is ESA?
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a UK benefit for people who have a disability, illness, or health condition that affects their ability to work.
It provides:
- Financial support if you can’t work.
- Personalised help if you’re able to work in the future.
There are two main types:
- New Style ESA – based on your National Insurance contributions.
- Income-related ESA – only available for existing claims (now replaced by Universal Credit).
Most new claims are for New Style ESA.
Eligibility
You may be able to get ESA if you:
- Are aged 16 or over.
- Have a health condition or disability that affects how much you can work.
- Are not receiving Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or Jobseeker’s Allowance.
- Have worked as an employee or been self-employed and paid enough National Insurance contributions in the last 2–3 years.
You can claim ESA whether you’re unemployed, self-employed, or working (if your illness limits what you can do).
How much can you get? (as of 2025)
Payment depends on your circumstances and which group you’re placed in after assessment:
Assessment phase (first 13 weeks):
- Up to £71.70 per week if you’re under 25.
- Up to £90.50 per week if you’re 25 or over.
Main phase (after assessment):
- Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) – up to £90.50 per week.
- Support Group – up to £129.50 per week.
Payments are made every 2 weeks into your bank account.
The Claim Process
Step 1: Start Your Claim
Apply for New Style ESA online at GOV.UK.
Or call the Jobcentre Plus new claims helpline:
0800 055 6688 (textphone 0800 328 1344).
You’ll need:
- National Insurance number
- Contact details
- Bank/building society account details
- GP/medical certificate (fit note)
- Employment details and National Insurance record
Step 2: Assessment Phase (up to 13 weeks)
During this phase, you’ll send in fit notes from your doctor.
You’ll be paid the assessment rate until your Work Capability Assessment is completed.
Step 3: Work Capability Assessment
You’ll fill in a Capability for Work questionnaire (ESA50) about how your condition affects your ability to work.
You may be invited to a telephone, video, or face-to-face medical assessment with a healthcare professional.
Based on this, you’ll be placed in one of two groups:
- Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) – expected to prepare for work in the future.
- Support Group – no requirement to work or prepare for work.
Step 4: Decision
You’ll get a letter telling you which group you’re in, how much you’ll be paid, and for how long.
If you disagree with a decision
You can request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month. If still unhappy, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Key Tips
- Apply as soon as possible after your Statutory Sick Pay ends, or if you cannot get SSP.
- Keep sending in fit notes until DWP tells you otherwise.
- Be clear on your ESA50 form — explain how your condition affects you day-to-day.
What is PIP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term health condition or disability.
It helps with the extra costs of daily living and mobility if your condition affects your ability to do everyday tasks or get around.
PIP is not means-tested – your income, savings, or work status do not affect your eligibility.
What does PIP cover?
PIP has two parts, and you may qualify for one or both:
- Daily Living Component – if you need help with everyday activities (e.g., cooking, washing, communicating, managing medication).
- Mobility Component – if you need help getting around (e.g., moving about, planning journeys).
Each component has two rates (standard and enhanced), depending on how your condition affects you.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
- Be aged 16+ and under State Pension age when you start your claim.
- Have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability.
- Expect the difficulties to last at least 12 months.
- Struggle with daily living and/or mobility tasks.
PIP is assessed on how your condition affects you, not on your diagnosis.
How much can you get? (as of 2025)
Daily Living Component:
Standard rate – £72.65 per week
Enhanced rate – £108.55 per week
Mobility Component:
Standard rate – £28.70 per week
Enhanced rate – £75.75 per week
(Payments are usually made every 4 weeks, directly into your bank account.)
The Claim Process
Step 1: Start Your Claim
Call the PIP new claims phone line:
0800 917 2222 (textphone 0800 917 7777).
Have ready:
- Your contact details
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Bank/building society account details
- GP or health professional’s details
- Dates of recent stays in hospital, care, or abroad
Step 2: Fill in the PIP2 Form ("How your disability affects you")
You’ll receive the ‘How your disability affects you’ (PIP2) form by post.
This is your chance to explain in detail how your condition affects daily life and mobility.
Include medical evidence, care plans, or supporting letters.
Step 3: Assessment
Most people will be invited to a face-to-face, telephone, or video assessment with a health professional.
They’ll ask about how your condition impacts you day-to-day.
Step 4: Decision
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will review your form, evidence, and assessment report.
You’ll get a letter telling you:
- If you’ve been awarded PIP
- Which component(s) you qualify for
- At what rate
- For how long
If you disagree with a decision
You can request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month of the decision.
If still unhappy, you can appeal to a tribunal.
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