Transport

Depending upon the severity of your disability we can help with the initial contacts to the appropriate services and dealers. We can then help with the various paperwork, if needed, and inform you about other benefits and concessions that you may be entitled to. We can also advise on how to obtain adaptations to your vehicle and vital equipment to help you with trouble free motoring.

The need for various methods of transport varies from person to person according to their needs and their disability. We have information on all sorts of transport whether it is for business, hospitals, shopping or leisure purposes. Some local councils operate a bus for shopping and Shopmobility schemes operate a free wheelchair/scooter loan service in several towns throughout Essex. There are several taxi companies with cabs to accommodate wheelchair users and disabled people.

Arrangements can be made in advance to travel on the trains and special schemes operate at airports. Don’t feel trapped just because you are disabled, there is often a solution.

If you have access to a computer the easiest way to apply for a Blue Badge is online.  If you go onto www.gov.uk and type Blue Badge into the search bar it will take you to the correct page to apply.  If you can’t do it online then contact your local Social Care Office for a Disabled Parking Badge form. Tel: Essex 0345 603 7630, Thurrock 01375 652652 and Southend 01702 215003.

If you are a Blue Badge holder you can get a reduced rate with the RAC{RESPONSE} Tel: 0800 029 029 Prefix 18001 before dialling 0800 029 029*** to use Typetalk or Text 07855 828282***

Inform DVLA if you hold a driving licence and have a disability that will last longer than 6 months, also inform your car and travel insurer that you have a disability or your insurance may not be valid.

If you receive the High Rate Mobility Component of DLA or Enhanced Rate Mobility of PIP you are able to get free car tax exemption and go through the Dartford Crossing, Severn Bridge and in the London Congestion Area free of charge. With the Standard Rate Mobility of PIP you will get a 50% reduction on car tax.

By purchasing a Disabled Persons Rail Card you and a carer can travel at a third off the normal fare. Tel: 0345 605 0525. www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk