Question from George Koowaree to 22 July Full Council Meeting: Disabled Person's Registration Card [Updated with answer]

4.13.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 16th Jul 2010

Question by Mr G Koowaree to the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services:

Will the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services please inform this council why there have been a 2-year delay in the introduction of a Disabled Person's Registration Card (proof that they are eligible to use disabled facilities) for people who have as a significant disability:

• are registered as blind with a local authority

• have a Blue Badge parking permit

• receive Disability Living Allowance (either care or mobility component)

• receive Attendance Allowance or Industrial Injury Constant Attendance Allowance

• have a long-term indwelling catheter or stoma.

...and need to use facilities provided for disabled people or need to ask for assistance; and inform members when this card will finally be available?

Answer given at Full Council meeting, 22 July:

"I met with Mr G Koowaree over the last two years, together with officers, to discuss the particular issue of people with hidden disabilities needing access to disabled facilities such as toilets.

"Based on this discussion, it was agreed that the best way forward was to build links with local businesses and communities to look at the possibility of developing a suitable scheme in Kent.

"Subsequent to that meeting, I also asked KASS officers to investigate a similar scheme in Nottinghamshire. Discussions are ongoing and I shall inform Members when further progress is made.

"It is important that this is seen in the context of wider public health issues and to note that the council already provides means of identification for disabled people such as Blue Badges and disabled registration cards."