Disabled parking badges could be vital to dementia sufferers keeping hold of their independence.

Calls are being made to widen the scheme for those who suffer with some mental disabilities.

‘Blue Badges’ allow drivers to park in disabled bays, which are usually closest to the entrance.

Cheshire West and Chester Council is throwing its support behind the idea.

Councillor Jill Houlbrook said: “Dementia is a very hidden condition.

“The fact you might not be able to drive yourself or come to remember where you left your car, or even where you left your relatives in your car.

“I think it’s really important this is highlighted to the Government.”

Blue badge for disabled drivers

As people live longer, diseases such as Alzheimer’s are becoming an increasing problem.

It is believed up to 750,000 people could benefit if the blue badge rules were changed.

CWaC resolved to write to the Department of Transport to show their support for a change in the legislation at their council meeting on October 20.

Alzheimer’s Society Cheshire operations manager Jo Hawkins said: “Many people with dementia gradually lose their ability to walk and perform simple tasks as their condition progresses.

“This means activities that many of us take for granted, like visiting the shops or attending GP appointments, can become physically challenging and make some journeys daunting.

“We support the call for people with dementia to be able to access the Blue Badge scheme, as this could mean more people with dementia are able to continue doing the things they enjoy and maintain their independence for longer.”

Councillor Eveleigh Moore Dutton put forward the motion with support from Cllr Houlbrook.

She said: “I am concerned a person’s mental condition and ability to cope are not currently taken into account.

“I would hope we can all get behind this and people who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other mental conditions which can make their lives extremely difficult.”

The motion received unanimous support at the CWaC meeting.

Blue Badges are available to drivers and passengers with a disability.

To receive one you must apply through the Government website and answer questions about your condition.

For more information visit www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge.

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