Blue Badge Interview

[DONNA1458]

my mum has applied for a blue badge as she has copd she has to go for an interview with them but is a nervous person and wonders what to expect. TIA

[daffy654]

I also have COPD/Emphysema and have a blue badge,I never had to go for an interview for it though,I was awarded it because I am in receipt of the higher rate mobility allowance.Does your mum not get DLA?

[mrrand]

Seem to remember the criteria being changed recently and hearing that some councils are taking the guidelines too literally.

Sure they will be used to nerves and will make allowances. Guess it is to weed out people who apply and don't really need.

If she is refused she should certainly appeal.

[ACtheTROLL]

it's a doctor that does the interview

the magic distance is less than 50m
make sure she knows what 50m looks like (overestimate distance not under)
never ever talk about good days ... only bad
I can walk about 40m - on really bad days it's nearer to 20
never let pride take over - warts and all

but only answer the questions - don't give too much detail

just ask her some questions ... run through her lines with her
she's allowed to take notes in with her - list medications/treatments/hospital dates
what happens on a bad day
general thoughts
take some time ... it makes the doc's life easier as well

the doc will probably meet her at the door - or will ask the receptionist if she jogged in to the surgery.

and probably will listen to her breathing

she's "on" from the minute she arrives in the car park (don't go by bus - taxi or car. - take time to cross carpark.

remember take time following doc to room (easier to forget) take time leaving ... and all the way to transport home

if successful - apply for DLA - and roadtax exemption
the application form should also give some idea of what will be covered in the blue badge interview

take note ... if she's bad ... there are other aspects to dla as well as getting about
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/Fin ancialSupport/DisabilityLivingAllowance/DG_100 11925

[DONNA1458]

daffy654 My mum came out of work 6 months ago she wanted to see if she would get better after a rest but it hasn't happened she is not sure what she can claim for i think she needs to go to the citizens advice centre. Thanks ACtheTroll.

[daffy654]

If your mum really struggles to get around then she should be entiltled to the mobility component of DLA. The citizens advice folks will be able to help her get the form and also help her fill it in,it is a horrendous form and has some really difficult to answer questions.If they turn her down on first application she has the right to appeal their decision.I appealed and was awarded the highest rate after an examination by a doctor appointed by the benefits agency.I was also given backpay to the original claim date.
Good luck to your mum with it all.

[angiealf]

If your not just pulling a fast one, tell your mum to be honest and truthful and if poss. you go too. Having some one there with you is reasuring as nerves can some times get the better of you. If your mum uses a stick, tell her to use it, even if she doesn't need it at that particular moment. If the interviewer notices that your mum's not realy using the stick he will take note and it may effect things. I on occasions need a stick, not all the time, but when ever I need to see someone, I always use it. Also tell her not to go in "All smiles and cheery", practice in making it look like she's in pain and discomfort in having to walk the distance.

[bigmamma]

I didn't have to go for any interview for a Blue Badge either , I just filled out a form , enclosed the relavant documents and the photos and the badge was sent to me . I think you have to be on DLA don't you ?

[hc4361]

No, you don't have be in receipt of DLA. If you get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA you are automatically entitled to a blue badge.
But other people can get the badge too, if they satisfy the requirements and usually have to attend an interview.

[bigmamma]

Thank you hc , I was hoping someone might know for sure x