Access and parking
Resources
- Access and access to public loos and beach
- Blue Badge scheme
- Disabled parking bay scheme
- Free bus pass
Access and access to public loos and beach
Parents who have children with complex physical needs have to plan outings, even simple everyday ones, with care. Even a trip to a supermarket can present problems if your child uses a wheelchair or large buggy. Brighton & Hove city council and access groups produce sets of leaflets about access, which can be a useful starting point. They have details of a wide range of accessible places locally, including disabled toilets. They are also useful if, for instance, you want to find out which branch of your bank or building society has a ramp.
There’s now an accessible walkway for wheelchairs in front of the lifeguard station near King Alfred Leisure Centre car park. You can also book special beach wheelchairs from the Seafront Office on 01273 292716. The Council web site also has lots of information on accessibility in public facilities like parks – visit http://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/ and click on the relevant links.
If you use the internet, the Brighton & Hove Federation of Disabled People website contains an Accessible City Guide giving information on accessible accommodation, restaurants, bars, clubs, shops or attractions in Brighton and Hove, as well as information on accessible parking in the city. Disabled Go is a website with access information for many towns around the country but sadly, Brighton & Hove is no longer listed. Also you may be able to get a RADAR key to open accessible public loos; contact the Council or RADAR.
It is always worth checking with the place you are going to because the information does get out of date, and sometimes the level of access described in leaflets can be misleading.
Blue Badge scheme
This enables the holder to parking concessions to make it easier to park closer to your destination. You can use it in anybody's car, but it belongs to the child and is there to help them rather than the rest of the family. It is valid for three years.
Brighton & Hove City Council administers the scheme and applies strict criteria; however it is always worth asking and explaining your mobility problems. Children are unlikely to get a blue badge if they are under two and, for children over two, it will depend on the degree of their disability. They will normally qualify if they are receiving the higher rate of the mobility part of Disability Living Allowance or are registered blind. To apply for a blue badge you need to contact the Parking Officer at the Council on 01273 296270. Find out more about Blue Badges.
Disabled parking bay scheme
If your child has problems with getting around and has a blue badge, you may be entitled to a disabled parking bay outside your house, as long as you do not already have off street parking. Ask for a form from the Highways department at Brighton & Hove City Council. It's important to note that, although it will be outside your house, the parking bay is available for use by anyone who has a Blue Badge.
Free bus pass
Children over five who have a disability may be eligible for a free bus pass. To check your child’s eligibility visit the Brighton & Hove council website or call 01273 291924.