CLAIRE KEEPS WELL WITH NHS FIFE

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Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Claire Baker MSP joined NHS Scotland in helping to promote their Keep Well initiative by undertaking a health check on the Revolution Bus at the local Asda store in Kirkcaldy.

Keep Well is a Scotland wide programme of targeted health checks that offers a systematic cardiovascular risk assessment for people aged between 40-64 years, without existing cardiovascular disease (CVD), but are at greatest risk of preventable ill health because of their life circumstances.

Cardiovascular disease affects the heart and blood vessels and can include coronary heart disease. The Keep Well programme also targets those aged 35-64 years who have a higher than average risk of developing CVD, such as Gypsy Travellers, South Asian and Black Afro Caribbean populations, those who are homeless, those suffering from substance misuse and offender populations.

The focus is on early detection and risk reduction; assessment consists of weight, height, body mass index (BMI) waist measurement and cholesterol and glucose testing (via a simple finger-prick). Keep Well also explore lifestyle, such as smoking, exercise and diet, and can offer free referral to a variety of other services that will help modify any risk present.

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LOCAL MSP RAISES CONCERNS OVER BLUE BADGE REFUSAL

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Local MSP Claire Baker has raised concerns with Fife Council regarding changes to the Blue Badge Scheme which has resulted in people with genuine disabilities being refused their badge.

The Blue Badge Scheme allows pass holders to park in spaces designated for disabled badge holders to ensure that those suffering from severely restricted mobility have access to parking close to their destination.

Changes to the system were brought into effect to ensure that the scheme was not being abused and only those entitled to a Blue Badge received one.

The framework of the scheme falls under the responsibility of Transport Scotland, with Local Authorities charged with administrating the scheme and issuing badges.

However it has come to the attention of Mrs Baker that people with genuine disabilities are being refused the badge due to the complexity of the new application forms.

Speaking from her office in Kirkcaldy, Claire Baker MSP said:

“It is right that attempts are made to ensure that the Blue Badge Scheme is not being abused however this should not be at the cost of genuine applicants being refused.

“Changes made have resulted in an application form that is causing confusion due to its complexity and this is resulting in those that rely on their Blue Badge having their applications rejected.

“Blue Badges are vital for those with genuine disabilities to ensure that they still have the independence to carry out everyday tasks such as going to the shops. Without this badge many will be forced to remain prisoners in their own home.

“I have written to Fife Council asking if there has been a significant increase in Blue Badge Scheme refusals and if they are confident that any refusals are not based on the complexity of the form.

“I have also asked if any training has been given to council staff to ensure that forms are filled out accurately as members of the public are being directed to the Local Service Offices for any help in completing the forms.

“I look forward to hearing back from the council and ensuring that genuine applicants for the Blue Badge Scheme are having their application rightly approved.”