Blue badge parking scheme extended to carers

The blue badge disabled parking scheme has been extended in Scotland to cover carers and relatives of people with conditions such as dementia, autism and Down’s syndrome.

Criteria changes were introduced in a pilot project in April last year. The Scottish Government has confirmed they will be now be adopted, meaning carers and relatives of people who pose a risk to themselves or others in traffic can apply for a badge. The scheme allows badge holders to park in designated disabled bays, as well as for free on streets with pay-and-display machines.

Transport minister Humza Yousaf said: “This extension in criteria has made it easier for relatives or carers looking after people with conditions like dementia, autism and Down’s syndrome to get closer to their destination, minimising the risks posed by traffic.”