Accessibilty, Travel, Transport and Accomodation

The hints and tips on this page have been submitted by people living with MND and are not as such endorsed by the MND Association. We would always recommend you consult a relevant Health Professional before trying any pieces of equipment or medications/treatments.

UK travel

Disabled people using certain toll bridges and tunnels around the UK, should be entitled to concessions, provided they meet certain conditions set by the owners or operators. In some cases, to qualify for a concession an application has to be made in advance to the relevant bridge, tunnel or local authority. It is, therefore, generally advisable to check with owners or operators first. Contact the Department of Transport


Airline travel

By contacting the airline when booking your tickets you can explain what help you may require and also request the 'better seats'. The airline can also be made aware that you may need assistance at the airport.
Read travel information on more than 20 airports in the UK and Northern Ireland including details on arrival, parking, car rental, airport contact details and much more.

Parking permits in California

If you are planning a visit to California you may wish to apply for a visitor’s  "Blue Badge" for the duration of your stay. Permits are issued state by state, and are not transferable between states.

Wheelchair use at airports

Finding myself without a wheelchair in Los Angeles (having been asked to check it in early), my flight was then delayed, and the departure gate moved. I learned the following lesson: Always check on the airport’s policy about using wheelchairs.
Learn more about disabled travellers and airport services.


Travelling with a wheelchair

Travel can be particulary hard on a wheelchair. It may help with on-the-go minor repairs, to travel with a small toolkit, spanner, screwdriver, hexagonal keys and some copper wire.

Equipment insurance

As any equipment you may need on your travels may be very valuable, it is worth taking out insurance cover to protect against loss, theft or damage for when you are travelling.

Reduction of London Congestion Charge

Blue Badge holders can get a reduction of the congestion charge. If you register, there is a flat £10 charge for three years, and several vehicles can be nominated.
Website:www.cclondon.com/exemptions.shtml
Tel: 0845 9001234

Disabled access

The Nationwide Access Register developed in partnership with RADAR and the Employers Forum on Disability, provides information about disabled access in buildings and premises all across the UK. Visit www.directenquiries.org

Access to London Theatres

An Access guide to London Theatres is published by:
Society of London Theatre
32 Rose Street
WC2E 9ET

B&Bs close to hospital

If you are looking for somewhere to stay while visiting a loved one in hospital:
www.bedandbreakfasts.co.uk/hospital.asp
is a good place to look. The website displays each hospital on a map, along with details of nearby accomodation.