Legal Framework
The Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 section 1 states that it ‘shall be the duty of every local authority having functions under section 29 of the National Assistance Act 1948 to inform themselves of the number of persons to whom that section applies within their area and of the need for making, by the authority, of arrangements under that section’. Each local authority has the right to interpret and determine their own criteria and registration process. Registration is entirely voluntary. These registers are quite separate and independent of the register kept by the Department of Employment.
Who can be registered?
Bath and North East Somerset maintains a register of disabled people and a separate register of people who are blind and partially sighted. No medical examination is required for general registration but a medical examination and report is required for the blind and partially sighted register. However, a person wishing to be registered as disabled will be asked to provide some evidence - either a benefit book, a blue badge, employment registration or letter from a health practitioner.
Bath and North East Somerset Social Services have adopted a wide definition of disability to include those people who come within our eligibility criteria who may have difficulty with every day tasks of daily living. Therefore, people with a learning difficulty and those with a mental illness etc. can be considered.
Benefits of being on the Register
There are a few benefits in being added to the general register of disabled people. Currently the chief benefits are :-
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It is possible to claim back the VAT on some categories of aids, equipment and adaptations if a person is registered disabled. |
| Some facilities offer concessions on admission charges if a person is registered disabled |
| People who are registered disabled may be eligible to apply for sheltered housing schemes depending onage and other factors. Contact the Housing Advice service on 01225 396296 for more information. |
Concessionary Travel
The criteria for people under pensionable age who wish to obtain a concessionary bus pass are slightly different and a Social Services registration may not be adequate. Persons wishing to obtain a concessionary pass are advised to apply to:
The Concessionary Travel Scheme
PO Box 2195, BA1 2ZJ |
Telephone 01225 477681
9.00am to 12.30 Monday to Friday |
Fax 01225 394335
Minicom 01225 394166 |
If you need help – Community Care Act Assessments of Need
People who are eligible for registration as disabled are likely to be also entitled to an assessment of their needs under the NHS and Community Care Act 1990. Such an assessment is required in order to receive services provided by Social Services. Anyone who believes they need help from Social Services in order to maintain their independence or to meet their need for care, should contact the Community and Health Access Team on 01225 396000. A friend or relative can make a referral if they have the permission of the disabled person.
Important: Please note that Registration is for a period of 5 years only unless the person is blind or partially sighted. This is because it is difficult to keep the register up to date. If you wish to maintain your registration beyond 5 years, you should contact us again. The expiry date is on the card.