What do we mean by Registration?

The law requires every local authority to maintain a register of people with disabilities. Anyone who has a disability can apply to go on the register.

With the help of a Register the local authority, through its Adult & Community Services Directorate, can recognise the general need of disabled people in Devon.

How could it help you?

Registration may help in the following ways:

• You do not have to pay VAT on some goods, directly relating to your disability. (See HM Revenue and Customs - VAT relief for Disabled people). Your retailer can give you a claim form or you can print off your own from the HM Customs & Excise web site.
• Local concessions may be available, for instance, libraries, theatres, Further Education and Training and other social outlets.
• If you are a wheelchair user, and have adapted your house, you may be entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax. Ask at your local District Council Housing Department for more details.
• Disabled Persons Railcard - their helpline is 0191 218 8103 or 0191 269 0304 (Textphone) or you can download an application form.
• Devonwide half fare travel pass for bus services in Devon. Tel. 01392/01271 383688 for details.
• BT Textphone users are entitled to a rebate on their telephone bill for any typed part of the conversation. For more information call Freetext 18001 0800 500 888.

And for people who are Registered Blind:

• Reduction in television licence. Application forms are available from local post offices.
• Tax allowances. Check with the Inland Revenue for updated figures.

Could I qualify?

If you have a disability and think you may qualify for registration, contact Care Direct on 0845 1551 007 who will be able to provide you with more information.

Following a social care assessment, if you are eligible for registration, we will complete the necessary paperwork and send you a yellow registration card. Keep this safe, as you will need it when claiming concessions.

For children or young people under 18 years of age with special needs, there is further information (leaflet. Ref. 91) Joint Agency Record of Children with Special Needs which is also available from your local Social Services office.

Blue Badge - Disabled Parking Permit Scheme

If your disability is caused by mobility problems or you are registered blind, you may qualify for a Blue Badge. You can find out more about blue badges. by contacting Disability Information Service on 0845 1551 005 or see our factsheet FS9 - Blue Badges, parking for people with disabilities.

The badge belongs to you and can be used in any private vehicle in which you are travelling. It is designed to allow you easier access to places you want to visit.  You do not have to own or drive a car to have a badge, but it must not be used unless you are in the car at the time.

Benefit Entitlement - Are you claiming all you can?

Care Direct 0845 1551 007 is a free information service for older people, vulnerable adults and their carers. The Disability Information Service 0845 1551 005 is a free information service for people with disabilities, their families and carers.  Both services would be happy to check your benefit entitlement for you, or you may prefer to contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

If you have any further questions please contact Care Direct 0845 1551 007