ARD Therapies Ltd
 Specialist Therapy Service in Kent, UK 

1.What does it mean to automatically qualify?
- Automatic qualification means that you would receive a Blue Badge without further assessment based upon certain factors.  These are namely specified benefits you receive, whether from DLA or PIP or War pensions for example.  Our quiz will take you through each option. 

2. Do I need to apply if I automatically qualify?
-Yes, you still need to complete the application form and would need to evidence the particular benefits you receive.  You will not require additional assessment however, once you have provided your evidence. We can assist you in completing your application or you can follow the links on our site to do this yourself. 

3. If I don't automatically qualify, can I still get a Blue Badge?
-Yes. You will need to provide evidence within your application and identify why you need the Blue Badge. Our Therapist can assess you and provide you with the necessary supporting evidence. 

4. Do I need a mobility assessment?
-This depends on your situation.  If you automatically qualify then no, if you do not automatically qualify, then a mobility assessment from an impartial registered Occupational Therapist will greatly increase your likelihood of a successful application. 

5. What happens if I don't have a mobility assessment and don't automatically qualify?
-Your council will assess your application and will require as much evidence as you can provide to enable them to make a decision. If you have not had a mobility assessment or provided supporting information from a professional, you may still get a badge.  However, if they are unable to determine if you should receive a badge from your appliaction alone, they will usually assign an expert assessor from the council and in some cases, assess you in person at one of their assessment centres.  This can cause delays in your application due to high demands in many councils.  (We can assess you and provide you with the evidence you require within 48 hours of our visit to your home.) 

6. Does a mobility assessment guarantee my Blue Badge?
- As a state registered Occupational Therapist, our assessment would be completely impartial and fair.  If we assess you to meet the criteria, then we would provide all the necessary evidence to support a successful application.  The final decision is with each individual council, but our assessment and report would provide strong evidence to support you with a successful Blue Badge application.   

7. Do I automatically qualify if I am a certain age?
- No, age is not a factor in determining if you can get a Blue Badge.  

8. What health conditions mean that I can get a Blue Badge?
- There are no identified health conditions that mean you will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge, it is dependent upon other factors including your ability to walk.  

9. Who decides if I can get a Blue Badge?
-Your local council is responsible for the final decision. We can support you in an appeal however if your application is unsuccessful.   

10. How long does the process take? 
-We can usually offer an assessment and complete your application with a few days of your enquiry. Once submitted, each council will have their own waiting times to process this, which can be quick in some cases and up to 6-8 weeks in others. Some council will take longer. The further delays come when they do not have the necessary evidence that we can help provide which can delay things by many months before they reach a decision. 

11.  The government website is confusing, how do I know if I can get a Blue Badge? 
- Take our free 2 min quiz on the link below or contact us by email on info.ardtherapies@gmail.com

We are also happy to talk if you prefer. 
Call us on 07854122089 to speak to an advisor.