I don't see the Companion Card so much as a demonstration of independence, but a program to assist those with disabilities overcome the countless obstacles of being included in many activities. The Companion card program wasn't designed to make it cheaper to go out, but to provide equal opportunities for those with disabilities. It does this by allowing the support you need without having to pay extra. Being able to take someone with you is more about safety. And unfamiliar areas can be a safety hazard for many. Most places accept the Companion Card as it covers their own commitment to the laws of Equal Opportunities. It also further assures the health and safety of their patrons. In other words it is an insurance security blanket. The Companion card is not easy to come by. You really have to show that you are in need of that support.

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I don't think you should feel guilty about using the card. If you qualify, you obviously need it. It's not fair to put yourself at risk when going out in the name of trying to be independent. Unfortunately there are still too many venues that are not truly accessible. Also, you are not depriving others of the card by having one.

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From the mid 90s I went to a many shows at pubs and concerts. This was in the days before the companion card (which was introduced about 2005?). For everything I wanted to go to, I just bought two tickets. That way I got past friends' dithering about whether or not they would attend (before tickets sold out!). It guarantee me a spot and my friend's companionship rather than being by myself. Sometimes they didn't pay me, sometimes they did, and sometimes they did through refreshments or staying at their house. For me, Companion cards have been a great thing, saving me a lot of money. Nonetheless, I would still go to the gigs even if I still had to pay for another ticket and I'm on DSP too. I think it is crazy for you to not use the card. You obviously deserve it and like Kermit says you are not preventing others from getting the card and funds are set aside for this with good reason. It is doubtful that the money will go to other areas of disability support. If you feel strongly about not using the card to get cheap tickets, then don't. Fair enough if your independence is your goal, but there is nothing wrong with paying the full price and giving the spare ticket to a friend helping you out on occasion if the need arises.

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I agree with all comments above. I do not think you should feel guilty and I think you should apply for another one when that time comes up. It is difficult to qualify for one, you really have to need it. Not applying for one I think would not mean that someone elsewould get it. You can still be independent and use the card. Don't feel bad please. Maureen

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I used to think that using taxis meant that I was being dependent. Then I realised something. I am being independent every time I go out of my house. Taxis assist me to get to my destination only. Taxis and companion cards help the community include us. What is your goal? Do you want to be isolated when you go out? Or do you want to have a good time with your friends? The companion card enables you to be included.

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I agree with Kate Giles, the Companion card is to encourage independence, certainly not dependence. As many people with a disability suffer from isolation and depression the companion card assists in encouraging disabled people to leave the safety of their home and experience a variety of things at different venues, and possibly using public transport. This improves independence and self esteem. Companion cards are not easy to get, therefore you have been assessed as to being eligible to receive one. Whilst it is great that you are able to retrieve things with your glasses case, your safety is at risk, so it is wonderful to be able to take a friend/family member with you to assist you with the activities which are difficult for you. To me it is a' win-win situation'.

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A companion card does not take away independence as it is optional to acquire so one has the independence to decide not to get it and should not complain about it because I feel, that denies the responsibility that comes with choice. It is designed with equal opportunity in place and to keep people independent as how hard would it be for people to go anywhere at all if they had to pay double? That is also unfair. A carer legally does not count as a second person I believe. I know it is annoying having someone tag along even a professional when you have a disability as there is still someone 'in your face' and you are not totally free but maybe that is ironically some sort of freedom and better than being home and never getting out as it is that way for some. If you have a companion card you can still choose when you want to use it and when you do not. You are not bound to it. You can still go out on your own if you are able to risk it or manage it. The best thing is though, to be safe and to consider your needs. Being able to choose is the limelight of independence. That is what is so liberating about independence.

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I can see both sides of this. Some people are saying that anyone who qualifies for the card must need it, but I'm guessing that as with many things, it's not always quite as simple as that. I think it's great that Jarrod has found there are many places he is able to go to on his own successfully! On the other hand however, there would be nothing wrong with having the card, and choosing when, where and if, to use it; in other words, having it as a back-up. Simply having the card isn't costing any money or preventing anyone else from getting help. Also, in regard to using the card,I think no-one should feel obliged to avoid activities they would enjoy just because it would mean the government paying for a companion (who could be a friend who might be very pleased with the arrangement!) Using resources doesn't always mean less left for other people: in fact it can work the opposite way, since use of resources can have a positive influence as to how much funds the government allocates to these programs!

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