Age Action Alliance Weekly Members News – 5th February 2018
Weekly Members News – 05/02/2018
Opportunities for Action
Blue Badge Parking – Consultation on Eligibility
The Blue Badge scheme enables 2.4 million disabled people in England to maintain their independence through special national parking concessions. The government believes that the Blue Badge scheme should not discriminate in principle between physical and non-physical disabilities, and the Department for Transport has therefore launched a consultation about clarifying the eligibility rules for people with hidden disabilities. The current rules embrace all conditions, physical or otherwise, but the regulations and guidance are not clearly understood by local authorities. People with hidden disabilities may be finding it difficult to access badges, even though their condition causes them very significant difficulties when undertaking a journey.
The department has accordingly committed to look again at how the scheme works for people with hidden disabilities, to ensure that the rules and guidance are clear and that those with the greatest needs have access to a Blue Badge.
The Royal Voluntary Service and Prudential have launched “Bring People Together”, a new campaign seeking to encourage and empower more people to volunteer, particularly those aged 50-65. Specifically its aim is to inspire them to start their own activities or clubs for older people with the backing of Royal Voluntary Service.
Positive Ageing in London and Age Platform Europe (UK section), with help from Wise Age Ltd, have jointly organised a conference and focus group on the subject of digital inclusion and the use of ICT by and for older people.
Speakers include a speaker from Age Platform Europe network, Moira Allan from the Pass It On Network, France on best practice and innovation across Europe, Hannah Marston a specialist from the Open University and member of the Institute of Gerontology, Stuart Anderson, a leading academic and specialist in this field, plus Freddie McMahon, an innovation and digital entrepreneur.
Date and time: 22 Feb – 1030 for 1100 start to 1530
Venue: Europe House, Smith Square, London, SW1P 3EU
Attendance is free and you can book a place via Eventbrite. For more details contact Chris Walsh at positiveageinginlondon@gmail.com.
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