Mobility problems? Live in London?

nemo183

Apologies if this is very old news, but I've just discovered this scheme that allows people with mobility problems to travel by taxi for £1.50 up to a fare cost of around £12.00.

http://www.taxicard.org.uk/

Amongst others, it seems to cover anyone registered blind or claiming the higher rate of mobility allowance.

Also, may I just suggest that anyone who is currently claiming the middle rate of mobility allowance consider having a go for the higher rate? Although it's a bit of a struggle, if you've got a reasonable case and support from your GP/Consultant, it's worth the effort. If you qualify, not only is it a higher rate, but all sorts of other benefits seem to be available.

Ted_Hutchinson

nemo183 wrote:

anyone who is currently claiming the middle rate of mobility allowance consider having a go for the higher rate?

Care component Weekly rate Highest rate £62.25 Middle rate £41.65 Lowest rate £16.50
Mobility component Weekly rate Higher rate £43.45 Lower rate £16.50

As you can see from the above quote from the DWP website there are only the 2 rates for DLA Mobility Component. By all means claim the higher rate if you qualify but be aware that the criteria for these two rates are somewhat different. The higher rate is for those who PHYSICALLY cannot or who are virtually unable to walk (more than about 50yds in a reasonable time, speed, gait, manner) using the usual walking aids, appliances (and this includes not just sticks but crutches) while the lower rate is for people MENTALLY unable to walk unaccompanied in places unfamiliar to them.
See Disability Alliance Mobility Criteria

nemo183

Ted_Hutchinson wrote:

Care component Weekly rate Highest rate £62.25 Middle rate £41.65 Lowest rate £16.50
Mobility component Weekly rate Higher rate £43.45 Lower rate £16.50

As you can see from the above quote from the DWP website there are only the 2 rates for DLA Mobility Component. By all means claim the higher rate if you qualify but be aware that the criteria for these two rates are somewhat different. The higher rate is for those who PHYSICALLY cannot or who are virtually unable to walk (more than about 50yds in a reasonable time, speed, gait, manner) using the usual walking aids, appliances (and this includes not just sticks but crutches) while the lower rate is for people MENTALLY unable to walk unaccompanied in places unfamiliar to them.
See Disability Alliance Mobility Criteria

Thanks, Ted, for the comprehensive information. Having read my previous post again I can see that I was probably a little too brief.

It is a fact that higher mobility rate is far more difficult to claim than the lower. Also, it's probably fair to say that the system appears designed to put off claiming either.

The point I was trying to make (albeit in a somewhat clumsy manner) was that it is always worth looking at the criteria carefully and then matching them against the claimants specific situation. There are a number of conditions that involve a combination of physical, neurological and mental health issues. Also, apart from the claimant, there may also be issues concerning the safety of other people that may be important.

By way of example, take the position of someone who has Tourettes Syndrome. On the one hand they may easily be able to walk of run for miles in a stress free environment. On the other, if required to use public transport, the stress of the situation will virtually disable them completely. Their tics will become both a danger to themselves and others. Any OCD problems will be made worse , making safe travel impossible. It is certainly possible for people in this position to claim the higher rate.

Whilst I accept that this is an unusual example there are also a number of similar conditions that could also lead to a successful claim.

I hope this is a better explanation.