§ Mr. Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what benefits are at present available for all groups and ages of blind people; and what is their estimated total cost.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisBlind people are entitled to a wide range of financial benefits, depending on their personal circumstances. These benefits include some where blindness may play a part in entitlement, such as the incapacity benefits, 531W attendance allowance or mobility allowance, and benefits such as retirement pension which are paid irrespective of the extent or nature of a person's handicaps. There is a higher supplementary benefit scale rate for blind people; and also a special income tax allowance of £180 a year. In addition, blind people are entitled to services and to benefits in kind, for example, under the provisions of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970. Such services and benefits comprise help specific to their particular visual impairment, including special training for and aids to employment, special welfare services and special equipment. Blind people are also entitled to a television licence at reduced cost, free postage on items specifically for blind people, parking concessions under the "orange badge" scheme for improving the mobility of disabled people, certain travel concessions and exemption from dog licence requirements in the case of a guide dog. Fuller information is given in the Department's leaflet HB I "Help for Handicapped People". It is not possible to separate that part of the total cost of all the various benefits and services which is attributable to blind people.