I have been living with RRMS since diagnosis in 2012. I have ups and downs as most of us will know, and in the early years tried to put notions of disability out of my mind.
I have always found the diagnosis of disability a confusing one, and it’s only recently that I’ve noted that I may be entitled to benefits from my condition.
I want to use my local gym and swimming pool for fitness and note that users with a disability may be entitled to reductions or free entrance.
Is there a proof of disability card (I have just applied for the MS Society ‘I have MS’ card) that can be shown as proof to businesses? And would I need a signed letter from my neurologist and MS nurse?
Any advice much appreciated!
Morning bobbie, I think someone a good while ago put on a similar post and I’m sure someone said you’re GP can help sort this out, might be worth asking your surgery, good luck.
Most of these things require proof in the form of a letter of entitlement to PIP, a disability benefit.
Have a look at the PIP scoring points and if you feel you meet some of them, deffo contact CAB and ask for help to apply.
Usually a blue badge also works for evidence. I’m not sure about the Dr diagnosis letter but I would try and see what they say. Places have very different requirements for evidence.
My gym, for example uses Council Tax benefit as a reason for a reduction in costs whereas other places look for disability benefit entitlement. There doesn’t seem to be any across the board thing.
It’s a few years ago since I got a discount from Council gyms and pools but I think I got a council wide ‘free entry’ after a letter from my MS Nurse to the leisure services. Have a look at your Council website and see if that provides any info
