If you’re parenting a child with Autism (ASD), PDA, or another neurodevelopmental condition — you already know that getting in and out of the car isn’t always straightforward.
Meltdowns, bolting, sensory overload, and transition struggles can make a short walk from a car park feel like a mountain to climb. Yet many parents don’t realise that you can apply for a Blue Badge under the “hidden disabilities” criteria — even if your child doesn’t have a physical disability.
💡 What is the Blue Badge Scheme?
The Blue Badge Scheme allows people with certain disabilities to park closer to their destination — often in dedicated bays, or for free in some areas. Traditionally, this was seen as something for people with physical mobility issues.
But since 2019, guidance in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has been updated to include people with non-visible (hidden) disabilities — such as Autism, ADHD, severe anxiety, and PDA.
✅ Can My Autistic Child Get a Blue Badge?
Yes — if your child meets the criteria for being at risk or unable to make journeys safely, they may be eligible.
Your child may qualify if:
- They have no sense of danger and may run off in car parks or roads
- They experience meltdowns, shutdowns, or become extremely distressed during journeys
- They need to be as close as possible to entrances to reduce risk of distress
- They have high sensory needs (e.g. noise, lights, busy spaces) which can trigger panic
- Transitions from car to destination often cause refusal or dysregulation
You can also apply if they receive the higher mobility rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) — but this is not required.
📄 What Evidence Do I Need?
While some councils will consider your application based on what you write alone, providing supporting evidence can strengthen your case.
Useful documents include:
- A letter from a paediatrician, CAMHS professional, or GP
- A report or observation from an Occupational Therapist
- School reports or letters from the SENCO
- Your child’s DLA award (if you have it)
- Any EHCP (though again, this is not essential)
- Incident logs or videos (e.g. meltdowns, bolting, etc.)
✍️ How to Apply
Each local council runs its own application process.
🧭 To apply, Google:
“Blue Badge hidden disability + [your local council name]”
This will take you to the right form and guidance.
Most applications are now online, and you’ll be asked to explain your child’s difficulties in detail. You may also be invited to an assessment.
💬 What to Say in the Application
Be clear, specific, and honest. Here are a few examples of the kind of wording that helps councils understand the daily reality:
- “My child has no awareness of danger and bolts into roads or between cars in car parks.”
- “He cannot manage transitions and becomes overwhelmed if we park far away.”
- “She has frequent meltdowns that put her and others at risk when walking across busy spaces.”
- “He requires a calm, close environment to regulate — long walks from the car are not possible.”
🟪 You’re Not Alone
We’ve been through this too — which is exactly why we created AskEllie.co.uk.
Ellie is your free AI-powered assistant for navigating SEND life:
🧠 EHCPs
📋 Legal advice
🖋️ Template letters
💡 Benefits and entitlements like this one
Ellie gives you clear, legally grounded answers, 24/7 — so you don’t have to fight alone.
📌 Final Thought
A Blue Badge isn’t a luxury — it can be a lifeline for families with autistic children. If you’ve been struggling with appointments, school drop-offs, or even a simple shop run… this could make a real difference.
Don’t wait to be told you’re entitled. Apply today — and if you need help, Ellie’s here for you.
Leave a Reply