Hi Craig, sorry to hear of your predicament with parking.
If you receive any form of DLA or Mobility allowance, even at the lower rate, you are entitled to a Blue Badge, especially if your mobility is impaired. I am also my fathers full time carer like you, so if your partner gets mobility or DLA, again you are entitled to a blue badge. I have a blue badge in my own right due to a Heart condition and even though I am on the high rate of Mobility, I had to get in touch with Blackpool, Mobility Benefits HO, who gave me a letter to hand in to my local council parking department, who then issued me a badge. Apart from that Craig, depending on what other benefits you are on, you may well be entitled to a free bus pass. It al depends on the disability and mobility benefits you are on.

If you get a letter from your specialist or GP stating that you are classed as disabled ( or caring for someone that is ) you will then be eligible for a free bus pass , just fill in the forms and take the letter along to your local council offices .A letter from the GP may well sway the council to issue you with a blue badge as well .

I agree, and you should appeal, i know 2 people who have appealed similar situations and been accepted in the end. You have to let them know you are serious Craig, otherwise they think you are just trying to rip them off.