Getting help at the pump as a disabled driver
If filling up is hard for you, forecourt staff can often help. The key is letting them know you're there.
Call ahead
The easiest way to get help is to ring the forecourt before you arrive, so staff can be ready. Spotapump shows a Call ahead for help button on every forecourt that has published a phone number. Find a forecourt on the live map and tap it.
When you arrive
- Park at a pump close to the kiosk and in view of staff, if you can.
- Many forecourts display a sign showing that help is available. Some have a call button at the pump.
- Sound your horn briefly or flash your lights if staff haven't seen you, and show your Blue Badge if you have one.
What forecourts should do
Under the Equality Act 2010, businesses must make reasonable adjustments so disabled people can use their services. For a forecourt, that usually means helping you refuel when staff are available. Help can be harder to get at quiet times when only one person is working, so calling ahead matters most then.
Pay at the pump
Pay-at-pump forecourts mean you don't need to go to the kiosk. Ask staff whether they can take payment at your car if you need them to fill up for you.
Blue Badge parking
Spotapump comes from the team behind Spotabay, which finds Blue Badge parking bays and shows the rules in force. We built Spotapump with disabled drivers in mind.
Questions
Can I get help at a petrol station if I'm disabled?
Yes. Forecourts should make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, which usually means helping you refuel when staff are available. Calling ahead makes sure someone is ready.
How do I ask a petrol station for help?
Ring the forecourt before you arrive, park near the kiosk, and use the help button or sign if there is one. Spotapump shows a Call ahead for help button for forecourts that publish a phone number.