The UK Government has turned down a request from Conservative MP Andrew Rosindell to examine the “potential merits of widening the eligibility criteria for the Blue Badge scheme”. Currently, approximately 3.2 million people across Great Britain use the Blue Badge scheme.
In a written statement, Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said the UK Government “fully recognises the importance of ensuring that the Blue Badge scheme supports those who have their mobility impacted by substantial and enduring disabilities and other health conditions”.
He noted that the Department for Transport “works closely with local authorities” to ensure the Blue Badge scheme remains “fair, effective, and focused on those who need it most”.
Mr Lightwood also outlined how the Department for Transport had previously consulted on broadening the Blue Badge eligibility criteria in 2019 “to allow people with non-visible (hidden) disabilities to be eligible for a Blue Badge”.
He said: “The current eligibility criteria are focused on the impact on an applicant’s mobility, rather than based on specific disabilities or conditions.”
Those with a physical disability or health condition affecting their ability to walk safely, or individuals with a hidden condition such as dementia or Parkinson’s, may qualify for a Blue Badge to enable parking closer to their destinations.
Individuals holding a Blue Badge, whether driving or travelling as a passenger, are entitled to free parking in designated disabled bays and may receive exemptions from certain parking regulations , reports the Daily Record.
Eligibility extends to those receiving the higher mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Child Disability Payment (CDP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
While applications can typically be submitted online, the guidance specifies that individuals with mental health conditions must get in touch with their local authority directly.
It explains: “If you have a mental condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic, you cannot apply online. You should phone your local council’s Blue Badge team for a paper application form.”
The guidance further notes that applicants who don’t meet the automatic qualification criteria may be required to undergo a mobility assessment and consultation with a healthcare professional.
It’s important to be aware that processing times for new applications or renewals aren’t fixed, potentially taking up to 12 weeks – though typically it’s around 10 working days. Local councils handle Blue Badge applications and determine the cost – they can also provide information on expected processing times.
