We have volunteers available to help you complete any of the forms below
Benefits available
Freedom Pass
The Freedom Pass gives free travel on most public transport in London at any time, and is funded by Merton Council.
Contact the Disabled Freedom Pass Administrator on 020 8274 4990.
For children, contact the Children’s Freedom Pass Administrator on 020 8545 4200.
Taxi Card
Merton Council subsidise taxi costs.
Children can obtain these cards.
Contact Taxi Card Scheme on 0845 4154156.
TV Licence
Reduction of 50% on the Television Licence fee.
This applies where a registered severely sight impaired adult or child who lives in the household.
Contact TV Licence helpline on: 0300 790 6071.
Parking Concessions: The Blue Badge Scheme
This is administered by the Local Authority, and can be used in any vehicle the visually impaired person is travelling in.
Contact Merton concessionary travel on 020 8274 4990.
Free postage on Items marked Articles for the Blind
This includes:
- Large print items – that is, books, papers and letters minimum 16 point font
- Braille items
- Computer disks
- Cassettes which have been specially prepared for people who are blind or partially sighted.
You May also be entitled to:
- A free loan of a Wireless for the Blind fund radio, MP3/cassette player for adults and children over 12 who are registered partially sighted or severely sight impaired
- Help with telephone installation charges and line rental.
Contact the Social Services of your local authority to find out if you qualify.
Sight Tests
You are entitled to free NHS sight tests if you are registered partially sighted or severely sight impaired.
You may get a voucher towards the costs of complex glasses. Other costs may be met if your household is on a low income.
Discounted Rail Travel
The Disabled Person’s Railcard gives approximately one third off national rail travel for a cardholder and an accompanying adult.
A discount can be obtained on single journeys without the DPR if proof is provided at time of purchasing tickets.
Exemption from BT Directory Enquiries
Contact BT 195 for further info. You may also receive these discounts if your supplier is not BT.
Council Tax Reductions
You may be eligible for council tax reduction if you have a room set aside for specific disability reasons. For example, a computer room or other equipment for communication needs.
Personal Tax Allowance
If you are working, you may be entitled to Blind Person’s Tax allowance if registered severely sight impaired. If you are not working, you may pass this to your partner.
Personal Independence Payment
This is a non-means-tested benefit designed to help people with disabilities live independently. Unfortunately MertonVision is not able to help with applications for Personal Independence Payment. Instead, please read the RNIB Personal Independence Payment toolkit.
