SCOTLAND’S blue badge parking scheme for disabled people has been permanently extended to cover carers and relatives of people with conditions such as dementia, autism and Down’s syndrome.
Changes were made as part of a pilot project in April last year.
The Scottish Government has confirmed these will be now be adopted into the scheme, meaning carers and relatives of people who pose a risk to themselves or others in traffic can apply for a badge.
Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “It’s so important that people with disabilities, including cognitive impairments, can live a life of equal opportunities.
“This extension has made it easier for relatives or carers looking after people with conditions such as dementia, autism and Down’s syndrome to get closer to their destination, minimising the risks posed by traffic.”
Iain Smith, of disability charity Inclusion Scotland, said: “Blue badges support independent living by enabling people who would otherwise not be able to get out and about to access facilities such as work, education, community, social or health services.”
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