Mobility · Blue Badge

A bit of dignity, parked close to the door.

The Blue Badge scheme makes life easier if walking is painful or impossible. The online application can be a slog, especially the evidence bit. We'll sit with you and get it right.

Accessible parking bay with blue badge symbol
What we help with

The everyday things people ask us about.

You don't need to know exactly what you need before you walk in. Most people start with one of these — and we work the rest out together.

01

First-time applications

Automatic, eligible-without-assessment, or eligible-subject-to-assessment — we'll work out which one fits.

02

Renewals

Blue Badges last up to three years. We'll start the renewal two months before expiry.

03

Photos & evidence

We take a free passport-style photo and help you scan or photograph proof documents.

04

Hidden disabilities

Anxiety, autism, ADHD and other non-visible conditions can qualify. We'll help you describe them well.

05

PIP & DLA evidence

We'll find the right pages of your award letter to upload as evidence.

06

Appeals

Refused? We'll help you understand why and put together a stronger appeal.

What to expect

Three steps, and you're not on your own for any of them.

  1. 01

    Book an appointment

    Ring or email to arrange a slot, then bring anything that proves who you are and your medical situation. We'll work with what you have.

  2. 02

    Apply together

    We log into GOV.UK with you, upload photos and evidence, and pay the £10 council fee if you want.

  3. 03

    Wait for the post

    North Yorkshire Council usually decides within 6–12 weeks; the badge arrives by post.

Who it's for

Come and see us if…

  • You receive the higher rate mobility component of PIP or DLA
  • You're registered blind
  • You receive a War Pensioner's Mobility Supplement
  • You have a long-term condition that makes walking very difficult or unsafe
  • You have a hidden disability that causes overwhelming psychological distress in public
What to bring

Worth bringing if you've got it.

  • Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
  • Proof of address (recent bill or council letter)
  • National Insurance number
  • Any PIP, DLA or AFIP award letters
  • Letters from your GP, consultant or therapist (if you have them)
  • Bank card if you'd like us to pay the £10 council fee on the day

Don't worry if you haven't got everything. Come anyway and we'll work back from what you do have.

Frequently asked

The questions we get asked most.

How much does the badge cost?

North Yorkshire Council charges £10 for a successful application. The badge itself is then free to use.

How long does it take?

About 45 minutes to an hour with us. The council then takes between six and twelve weeks.

Can I apply for someone else?

Yes, as long as they consent. Bring their ID and any award letters and we'll fill it in together.

What if I'm refused?

Don't panic. We'll read the refusal letter, look at what was missing, and help you appeal or reapply with stronger evidence.

My disability isn't visible — do I really qualify?

Possibly, yes. Since 2019, hidden disabilities like autism, severe anxiety and certain mental-health conditions can qualify. The wording on your form matters — we'll help.

A quiet pound doing noisy work

Support The Big Communitea Centre your way.

Every pound you give keeps the kettle on, the doors open and the support free. No middlemen, no fees, no fuss, just direct help for people in Selby who need it.

100% goes straight to the centre

Talk to a person

Give us a ring to book a time.

Support sessions are by appointment so we can give you our full attention. Call in or ring up, and a member of staff will set a time and date that works for you, Monday to Friday, 9 to 4. Support is for ages 16 and over. No referral, no awkward forms before you've even said hello.