Green light for disabled ID cards

People whose disabilities are not obvious are to be offered identity cards to help give them access to disabled facilities in Nottinghamshire. The idea came after Terry Gallagher, a Nottinghamshire resident, became fed up with having to explain why he needed to use a disabled toilet.

Mr Gallagher has a number of medical problems but does not use a wheelchair so his disabilities cannot be seen. The scheme will now be extended across the county following a trial.

Mr Gallagher said: "Having been forced to explain at length, and in public, about my disability, I felt there must be a solution to the problem. In the 10 weeks I've been involved in the pilot scheme, I've already used the card on three occasions."

Councillor Alan Rhodes, from Nottinghamshire County Council, added: "We are pleased that the pilot scheme is working so well and we hope it will continue to help disabled people who previously suffered the indignity of explaining their disability in public."

It is believed there will be a small administration charge for the card, between £10 and £15.