Discover if you or your loved ones can participate in the highly beneficial Blue Badge scheme.
Did you know that if you have a disability or health condition that affects your mobility, you may be eligible to receive a Blue Badge?
This scheme applies not only to drivers but also to caregivers of children with mobility-related health conditions. Furthermore, if you are registered blind or receive certain benefits such as the higher level of the mobility element of Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement. In that case, you will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge. Additionally, if you have received a one-off payment from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme due to a significant and permanent disability. In that case, you may also be eligible for a Blue Badge.
Are you receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP)? Did you know that this may automatically qualify you for a Blue Badge? Check out if you meet these criteria:
- Have been awarded PIP with a score of at least 8 points for the ‘Moving Around’ activity
- Have been awarded PIP with a score of at least 10 points for the ‘Planning and Following Journeys’ activity
- Have been awarded PIP with a score of at least 12 points for the ‘Moving Around’ and ‘Planning and Following Journeys’ activities combined
Here are a few ways you may qualify for the Blue Badge scheme:
- You cannot walk unaided
- You have a terminal illness and have difficulty walking
- You care for a young child who requires medical equipment
- You experience overwhelming responses that affect your behaviour
If you think you might qualify, reach out to your local council for more information. They’ll be happy to help you figure out if the scheme could be right for you.
What are the benefits of the Blue Badge Scheme?
Your badge entitles you to a range of benefits, here are a few you can access:
- Priority access to disabled parking bays
- Free on-street parking
- Reduced rate or free parking at selected council and private car parks
- Additional discounts are available from local authorities
- Eligibility for exemption from road tax
- Free or discounted public transport is always a massive help
- Priority seating on trains and buses
- Plus, you can get free or discounted entry to select attractions
A Blue Badge can provide a significant advantage for drivers of large mobility vehicles, such as the Renault Trafic Flat Floor or Volkswagen Transporter. These vehicles typically require more space to park and load passengers, especially if they have a ramp or lift for wheelchair access.
With a Blue Badge, you can access designated disabled parking bays that are typically wider and closer to your destination. This can make it much easier to park and load or unload passengers, particularly in busy areas where parking spaces are limited.
Blue Badge holders are also entitled to park longer than other drivers, which can be especially useful when attending appointments or events that may last several hours.
You can also use the Blue Badge Parking app to help you find Blue Badge disabled parking bays at your destination.
How do I apply for the Blue Badge programme?
On the government’s website or through your local council, you can apply for a Blue Badge. If you apply online, you must first create an account, then complete the application and have all supporting documents ready to upload.
You’ll also need to explain your health condition or disability (if you don’t meet the requirements for a Blue Badge automatically) and why you need a Blue Badge:
You’ve been diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Blue Badge applications for people with terminal illnesses are usually expedited by councils. You must submit a copy of the form (DS1500) confirming your terminal illness, which you can obtain from your consultant or doctor.
You have difficulty walking
You must demonstrate that you have difficulty walking due to a long-term and significant disability. You will be asked to provide as much information about your condition as possible, such as the distance you can walk without assistance. Explain in your application how long it takes you to walk this distance and whether you usually take small steps or shuffle. You should also try to describe how walking makes you feel, such as whether you get out of breath or experience severe pain.
Having difficulty using your arms
If you have difficulty using your arms, getting a Blue Badge may be difficult, especially if you only travel as a passenger. To qualify for a Blue Badge, you must show that you have severe problems with both of your arms and using parking metres or ticket machines. You’ll also have to explain why you need to drive on a regular basis.
Your child is under three and must stay close to a vehicle
To quickly get to the hospital or home, your child must be close to a vehicle. List any large equipment you’ll need for your child’s condition, such as feed pumps, suction machines, ventilators, or oxygen cylinders. Note how often this equipment is required.
What documentation do you need to apply for a Blue Badge?
To apply for a Blue Badge, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity and address, your national insurance number if you have one, a recent head and shoulders digital photo and your contact details. If you’re automatically eligible for a Blue Badge, you must provide a copy of your original decision letter from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).
To prove your identity, you’ll need to provide a copy of one of the following:
- Passport
- Birth or adoption certificate
- Driving licence
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Divorce or dissolution certificate
To prove your address, you’ll need to submit a copy of either:
- Driving licence
- A recent council tax bill
- A recent letter from a local authority or government department
- A recent letter from a school (if the applicant is under 16)
What happens after you apply for a Blue Badge?
Blue Badge applications can take up to 12 weeks to process, depending on whether you need to provide more information or undertake a mobility assessment. A health professional will review your mobility and let the council know whether your disability or health condition limits your mobility enough for you to need a Blue Badge.
If your Blue Badge application is declined, the decision letter will explain how you can ask for a review of the decision.
Do I have to notify the DVLA if I have a Blue Badge?
You must notify the Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if you have a Blue Badge if you have a driving licence. You must also notify the DVLA if you develop one or more serious medical conditions or disabilities, or if your condition or disability worsens since you obtained your licence.
If you fail to notify the DVLA that your condition may impair your ability to drive safely or that you have been issued a Blue Badge, you could face a £1,000 fine. If you have an accident, you may also face charges.
Is there a fee to participate in the Scheme?
Councils can charge up to £10 in England and £20 in Scotland for a Blue Badge. A Blue Badge, on the other hand, is free in Wales. Some local governments provide discounts or exemptions based on income or personal circumstances.
How long does the Scheme last?
As Blue Badges don’t automatically renew, you must reapply every three years or before your current Badge expire. You cannot use an expired badge and must apply for a new one as early as possible. If you no longer need your Bladge Badge, for example, if your condition improves, you must return your Blue Badge to your council. If you don’t, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.
Who is authorised to use your Blue Badge?
Your Blue Badge is just for you to use in any vehicle in which you are the driver or passenger. The Badge can also be used by someone who is picking you up or dropping you off and must park where you are being picked up or dropped off. Even if they are visiting you, you must never give it to them to use.
You may not use your Badge if you are simply waiting in a car and do not intend to exit it. Misuse of a Blue Badge is a criminal offence punishable by a fine of up to £1,000.
How to use a Blue Badge?
We’ve laid out some guidelines below – but don’t worry if you’re still unsure, your blue badge will come with an instruction book to help guide you through the process.
Tips for Proper Use of Your Blue Badge Parking Permit:
- Make sure to display the Blue Badge on your dashboard or windscreen clearly before parking in a disabled space
- Double-check the parking sign to ensure that you are eligible to park in the space
- Remember to also display the clock if required when parking on-street, and set the time for your arrival
- If parking in a time-limited space, use the Blue Badge and clock to indicate when you arrived; note that you can park for up to 3 hours on yellow lines unless otherwise indicated
- Lastly, always remember to remove the Blue Badge from the dashboard when not in use
The Blue Badge scheme is a crucial resource for people with disabilities or mobility impairments. It provides easier access to services and facilities and helps them maintain their independence and quality of life. To learn more about the Blue Badge Scheme and how to apply, visit Citizens Advice for further details.
