VAT is not chargeable on new builds. VAT is chargeable on restoration
and refub/extra room etc on existing property. VAT not payable on the
aids and equipment for user. Phone VAT office, very helpful.

Thanks Liz.

I was lucky(?) in that I automatically qualified for a badge because I get DLA mobility. I think that having to apply for a badge must be quite a degrading process. There are certainly a lot of problems with the current system, not least the fact that the rules are different for every council.

I wish you all the best with your application, please let us know how you get on and pass on any tips you think might be useful to others.

All the best,

Jamie.

Im a back, hip and leg pain sufferer. This has lasted 3.5 years so far and looks likley to continue. I use a walking stick with sometimes the need to use swing through crutches when very bad. I use a BuTrans patch currently at 20ug per hour. Unfortunately the council do not look at the level of pain releif required, only on the distance each individual is able to walk. The condition must be expected to last 3 or more years (permanent and substantial) and severely inhibit walking…although apparently having to use a stick/crutches is not enough…your walking distance without being in agony should be less than 50 meters.

Mine was originally rejected. Im waiting to hear from them a second time.

Be careful and discuss with your GP if you are going to apply. His support is of the utmost importance.

I do believe that councils should be asking walking distance, but this should be taken with a host of other information about each individual condition including pain levels and analgesia levels where applicable. On pain releief that completely takes away the pain (not yet discovered) Im sure I could leap like a startled gazelle, but Id be high as a kite doing it!!