Hi. I’m being lazy not researching this, but in case you ladies will know. I know we are all covered by the Disability Discrimination Act, and I can see why. But my first question is for how long? Forever, or just temporarily?
If forever, can we automatically register as disabled? I’m thinking primarily about a blue badge for car. Very different mind-set these days; if I’m entitled to one then why not get one. It would be some compensation for what I have been through, and something which makes life easier. Does your GP decide if you are entitled to a blue badge?
You have to be able to demonstrate that you have difficulty walking. This requires medical references. I was only told about the possibility once I was mobile again! However, knowing how ruthlessly they assess ‘disability’ for state benefits, I wouldn’t hold your breath. I also believe the entitlement is time-limited - it’s up to your local council. I applied as I can’t walk any distance owing to numb toes (paclitaxel) but almost 2 months on, I’ve had more reaction from my toes than the blue badge department.
Re technically being disabled and covered by disability legislation
Once you have had cancer you technically count as disabled forever more. I understand this is due to aspects like long term impacts/risks of some treatments and what we are effectively living with. The legislation provides some protection re employment and phased returns etc.
Re disabled blue badge
My understanding is similar to Jaybro’s that this is primarily for people who cannot walk far due to disability so quite different.
Personally I think individuals should only apply if they really genuinely need it due to medical factors severely impacting on mobility, such as some of the women with advanced secondary BC cancer. Anything else just risks making matters harder for those in genuine need and damaging perceptions of genuine mobility issues. Sorry if this isn’t quite the response you were hoping for but I think we all need to be careful to ensure disability protection is used where it is really needed and justified on medical grounds.