Membership

Note from our Chairman

When I joined what was then known as The Orange Badge Network in 1996 it was purely because I felt the Network would be an asset to me as a disabled motorist and, indeed, it proved to be the case. However, I quickly realised that I had time and skills to help further the work of the organisation and very quickly became involved by offering my services as an Area Representative.

Soon after taking on this role I was voted on to Committee, serving first as a Senior Representative and then Honorary Secretary with the combined role of Editor of our quarterly Newsletter.

It was at our AGM in May 2000 that I was elected Chairman of what had then become known as The Blue Badge Network (the change of colour to coincide with the introduction of the new disabled parking permit, as agreed by all member states of the European Union).

I count it an honour and privilege to be in this position and pledge myself to do all I possibly can to keep the Network strong, active and moving with the times. Being part of a Network with the vast majority of its members being people with mobility problems has greatly enriched my life as I have been part of a very dedicated team of Council members and also had contact with individual Network members, dealing with their particular problems. It has also been a very humbling experience as I look at our Area Representatives who help to keep the Network 'on the move' while, at the same time, coping with their own enormous physical problems. However, I think we can all say that we find it far more worthwhile to look to the needs of others, working for their benefit, than to wallow in our own problems, thus becoming self-centred, depressed or even bitter at the blows life has dealt us.

In 2001 we celebrated our 10th Anniversary by relocating to improved and larger offices in the centre and business area of Dudley, West Midlands. From the time of our move we have been supported in our work by the Member of Parliament for Dudley North, Ross Cranston, QC, who has since become our President. We are constantly seeking ways to improve the service the Network offers and enlarge our membership for we know that of the 2.5 million people in the UK who have been allocated a Blue Parking Permit there are many more out there who would benefit from becoming members. But membership is not confined to people with mobility problems alone for we need all the help we can get and willing, able-bodied people are most welcome to join us.

To have a strong Network and allow our voice to be heard, we need as many members as possible. With the help of all badge holders and supporters we aim to get the respect that the badge deserves so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of full mobility. With greetings to all our present members and a warm welcome to those of you who about to join The Blue Badge Network.

Mary EA Grace (Mrs.)
Chairman

Membership

Please send a cheque/PO crossed & made payable to the Blue Badge Network, an SAE would be appreciated

Membership (personal 1 year) £10.00

Joint: £12.00 (1 Newsletter)

Junior (17 years or under) £5.00

After the initial year's subscription, members are encouraged to pay via Standing Order, and so help cut down on admin costs (contact head office who will be glad to send details out to you.)

Click here for membership form to print off

Gift Aid Taxation Declaration

Did you know that the rules on Gift Aid taxation have changed?

New ruled brought into operation on 6th April 2000 mean that even small donations will now be eligible for tax relief. Many members, when paying their subscription, add a sum as a donation to help in furthering the Network's work. By signing, once only, a declaration to the Network, we can claim back from the Inland Revenue the tax the donor will have already paid, at the rate of 28p in the £. The declaration on this form will be sufficient.

Your Council of Management would be very grateful to all members who decided to help by completing this declaration. Once we have your personal authority we will take the steps necessary to comply with your decision. Your donation will be of significant value to the Network for this is an opportunity for you to increase your contribution without any extra cost to yourself and we hope that you will decide to do so.