Accessible information
Information Guides
Accessible information:Frequently Asked Questions
Through our helpline we receive enquiries spanning a wide range of different topics. Here is a selection of those most asked:
Can I get a reduction of Vehicle Excise Duty?
If you are disabled you may be entitled to a reduction or exemption on vehicle tax if you meet the government criteria. The vehicle must be registered in your name or a named driver’s name and must only be used for your personal needs.
You can apply for exemption if you get the:
- higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- enhanced rate mobility component of Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
- War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
You can get a 50% reduction in vehicle tax if you get the Personal Independence Payment standard rate mobility component or Adult Disability Payment standard rate mobility component Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
How can I search for accessible places to visit in Scotland?
Whether you are planning a meal out, a weekend trip or day out to one of Scotland’s parks, there are websites and ‘apps’ that you can use in your search for an accessible venue or activity.
Euan’s Guide is a disabled access review website and app that aims to ‘remove the fear of the unknown’ and inspire people to try new places.
OpenBritain is your website that provides information on accessible tourism in the UK and includes day trips and tourist attractions.
Disabled Go provide access information on venues across the UK and Ireland.
For more information on accessible places to visit in Scotland search our Scottish Disability Directory and select the ‘Holidays/Respite’ category.
Am I entitled to benefits?
A benefits check is a calculation that will give you an idea of what you might be entitled to. You can get a check at your local welfare rights project, local Council Money Advice , Citizens Advice Bureau. or a charity like Age Scotland. Age Scotland has a guide to what to expect M 15 ben check 2023.indd (ageuk.org.uk) and an online benefit calculator.
You can also use the Turn2us benefit calculator online.
To find your local welfare rights service search our Scottish Disability Directory. or contact our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
What help is there with energy costs?
Energy costs used to be a worry in winter but now bills can be a challenge all year round.
The good news is there are different grants and schemes available to help people improve the heating in their homes and keep heating costs down. Check out our Help to heat your home guide for more information.
Home Energy Scotland is a free energy advice service funded by the Scottish Government to help people save money and keep their homes warmer. They offer simple energy saving tips, know about funding schemes and can arrange benefits checks to help people access help.
You can call Home Energy Scotland’s free helpline on 0808 808 2282 to check what support you might be entitled to, text WARM to 60163 for a call back or email advice@se.homeenergyscotland.org.
How can I get a RADAR key?
The National Key Scheme (NKS), often referred to as RADAR keys, offer disabled people independent access to locked public accessible toilets around the country. You can buy from Disability Rights UK either over the phone or through their website.
You can also purchase RADAR keys through some chemists and online.
For further information see our Accessible Toilets information guide or the Disability Rights UK website.
Call the Disability Information Scotland helpline on: 0300 323 9961
What can I do if I feel that I have been discriminated against?
The Equality Act 2010 legally protects people from discrimination at work and in wider society. You’re disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities. There is detailed guidance here Equality Act Guidance.
If you feel you have been treated unfairly there a number of steps that you can take. You can speak to an advisor at an advice agency such as your local citizens advice bureau or you can call the Equality Advice Support Service (EASS) who can help people with equality and human rights issues.
If you need employment advice, ACAS provide free and impartial information and advice to employers and employees about employment law. You should always get advice before discussing your problem with your employer. You can call their helpline on 0300 123 1100.
Making a complaint about other discrimination
There are several steps that you can take when making a complaint about other matters:
- Follow the organisation’s complaints procedure and say what you would like to happen next. For example an apology, changes to the way they do things or money as compensation. You can use a template form available from the Equality Advisory Support Service.
- Ask an advocate to support you to say what you want to say or explain what you want to say if you are unable to speak for yourself. Contact the Scottish Independent Advocacy Service.
- Get advice about the options, costs and consequences of taking court action.
If you need further information, or help to contact your local advice service please call our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
Am I eligible for VAT relief on disability equipment?
In general, disabled people do not have to pay VAT on goods and services that are designed or adapted solely for use by disabled people. These goods and services are often called zero-rated or eligible for VAT relief.
Most suppliers will know if their product has been specifically designed to help disabled people. They will offer their products free of VAT as you buy them.
You’ll need to confirm in writing that you meet the conditions for zero rating. Your supplier may give you a form for this.
Most suppliers will use the Notice 701/7 VAT relief for disabled people form.
For further information see our VAT Exemption for Disabled Goods Information Guide or call our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
Accessible information:Search for Local Organisations
Our quick search tool can connect you to over 3000 service providers, suppliers and organisations supporting people across Scotland. To find support near you, simply enter your search term and select your local authority.
Organisation | Description |
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25% ME Group | Aims: To offer support and advocacy services to severely affected M.E. sufferers and their carers. Services provided: Advocacy via telephone, or face-to-face (locally) only Helpline for members and their carers offering emotional support Newsletters tw… |
27000 | We are open 8 till 8pm all week and weekends however if you need us please email and we will be happy to help. ‘A venue for hire in the heart of Hamilton’ Our venue is available for the whole community and we aim to keep the costs down. A Space… |
A2i Transcription Services | Description of service: A2i is an experienced transcription company who transcribe print documents into Braille, Audio, Large Print, e-text, Accessible PDF, Easy Read and BSL video. We also produce tactile diagrams, graphs, and maps and translate docum… |
AAT (GB) Ltd | Description of service and products sold: Provide solutions for climbing stairs using powered stair climbers and stair climbing equipment, as well as evacuation and help with disabled access issue. They can also provide information on the Disability Di… |
Aberdeen Action on Disability Ltd | Promote the integration of all disabled people into the community |
Aberdeen Airport Disabled Access Guide | Access guide detailing facilities for disabled people at Aberdeen Airport |
Aberdeen Citizens Advice Bureau | Provide information to people living in the local area |
Aberdeenshire North Access Panel | Aims: To assist and advise in the creation and maintenance of access provision for persons with a disability throughout Aberdeenshire North with reference to buildings, environment and access approaches in general. Services provided: Disability awarene… |
Aberdeenshire South Foodbank | Services provided: The area covered by the ASFB extends from the edge of Aberdeen City west to Braemar and from Strathdon to Portlethen, Stonehaven and Inverbervie. To obtain a food parcel from the Foodbank you must have been referred to them by a fron… |
Aberdeenshire Support and Advice Team (ASAT) | Provide welfare rights advice |