Discounts and Exemptions
This page is dedicated to letting you know which discounts disabled children are entitled to and the exemptions almost every special needs child should get. For more information, use the details provided to contact the relevant organisation.
National Express Coach Travel Discount
A concessionary fare applies to all passengers who qualify as disabled as described by the legislation in the Transport Act 2000. It is available on National Express services throughout England and Wales and also to Edinburgh or Glasgow from destinations in England and Wales. For further details contact the Disabled Persons Travel Helpline on 0121 4238479
National cinema initiative
A new national card scheme has been in existence since 2004 in almost every UK cinema - over 500 cinemas. The Cinema Exhibitors' Association Card entitles the holder to one free ticket for a person accompanying them to the cinema. The card is now valid for one year from the issue date and costs £5.50. To apply for the card a person must meet one (or more) of the following criteria.
a) Be in receipt of disability living allowance b) Be a registered blind person
For more information visit http://www.ceacard.co.uk or telephone 08451231292 or text phone 0845 1231297
London congestion charges
With effect from February 2003 all drivers entering the charging zone between 7 am and 6.30 pm Monday to Friday will have to pay a fee. Blue/orange badge holders are eligible for 100% discount on registration of the vehicle. There is a one-off £10 registration fee and badge holders should contact Transport for London on 0845 900 1234 to apply for discount.
There is now a booklet detailing where to park in London with a Blue Badge, available for £5 from Blue Badge Network, 198 Wolverhampton Street, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 1DZ, or telephone 01384 257001
Variety Club Easy Riders Scheme
The Variety Club is accepting applications for help with funding for mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and buggies under its Easy Riders Scheme on behalf of children with special needs under 19 years old and from a financially disadvantaged background. For more information telephone 020 7428 8100 or email [email protected]
Council Tax Disability Reduction Scheme
If you live in England, Scotland or Wales you may be entitled to a disability reduction in your council tax bill if you or any other resident is 'substantially and permanently disabled.' This can be applicable to adults or children. For further information and an application form contact your local authority.
TV Licence Concession
If you or someone you live with is blind, you may qualify to receive a 50% concession on the cost of your TV Licence. Telephone 0870 241 6468 for further details.
Disabled Persons Railcard
It costs £14 per year to buy a Disabled Persons Railcard and this entitles the holder to a discount of up to a third off usual ticket prices. It also allows an adult to travel with the holder for the same discount. Visit www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk or call into your local train station or phone National Rail enquiries on: 08567 48 49 50
Telephone - 0845 605 0525
M6 Toll Road Exemptions
Now that the new M6 Toll motorway is open there is a pass available to exempt those who are in receipt of DLA or are exempt from road tax. An application form can be obtained by telephoning 0870 8506262 or visiting website www.m6toll.co.uk. There is a £5 administration charge for the pass
