Help with transport
There is some support with travel costs for people with cancer.
Blue Badge scheme
If you can’t walk or find walking very difficult, you may be able to apply for a parking permit under the Blue Badge scheme.
The permit can be used in any vehicle you are travelling in, as a passenger or driver. It allows parking for free in restricted parking areas, disabled public parking bays, and on yellow lines. You can’t use a Blue Badge everywhere, and the rules can be different in different areas. Check before you travel at GOV.UK for England or Wales, or your local council website in Scotland.
Your family can apply for a Blue Badge on your behalf, and you don’t have to be the driver to qualify. You can apply for a Blue Badge from your local council, or online at:
- GOV.UK if you live in England or Wales
- mygov.scot if you live in Scotland
- nidirect if you live in Northern Ireland.
Do not apply for a Blue Badge from anywhere else, as it may not be legitimate.
If your cancer can’t be cured, the council is usually able to fast-track your application. It’s best to ask for a paper form from your council, or from the Blue Badge Unit if you live in Northern Ireland. Tell them that you have terminal cancer. This may make the application process easier. If you do apply online, make it clear that you are terminally ill.
Hospital parking and discounts
Many hospitals charge for parking. But free or reduced parking charges may be available to people who:
- have a Blue Badge
- have regular outpatient appointments – at least three times a month, for at least three months
- have family members in hospital for a longer period of time
- are visiting relatives who are very ill.
Ask at the hospital’s main reception about this.
“The hospital my Mum was being treated at gave free passes for parking for those being treated for cancer or their carers, so it is worth checking.”
Travel to hospital
This can be tiring, expensive, and difficult if you don’t drive. If you have lots of hospital appointments, you may need support travelling to hospital.
- Ask friends and family to help drive you to hospital. You may find people are happy to help in this way.
- Some hospitals provide transport for certain patients. Ask the GP, nurse or hospital staff to see if this is available.
- You may also be able to get help with transport from the British Red Cross, local charities and support groups. Ask the nurse what help is available in your area.
- If you receive certain benefits, you may be able to claim certain travel costs back. Ask a member of the healthcare team or at the hospital reception about this. You can also contact Macmillan Cancer Support for information about any financial support.
May 2024
To be reviewed May 2027