Motorists using car parks at six UK supermarkets are being urged to take part in an annual survey this August to help tackle the misuse of disabled parking bays. The Baywatch campaign, run by Disabled Motorists UK (DMUK), is asking disabled drivers and those who travel with them to report their experiences at Asda, Aldi, Lidl, Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsbury's.
Campaign highlights 'ever-persistent' problem
The campaign poses the question: "When will the Blue Badge rules be enforced?" It says: "Every year, the Baywatch campaign draws attention to an ever-persistent issue, the misuse of disabled parking bays. These spaces are not optional extras within car parks."
"They are essential to enable disabled people to carry out everyday activities such as shopping, attending medical appointments, and participating in work and social life. When they are misused or poorly managed, the impact is immediate and significant."
Survey findings and impact
Figures show that as of March 31, 2025, there were 3.07 million Blue Badges held across England. The permits allow holders to use disabled bays and park on some double yellow lines, often without paying.
Last year's Baywatch survey found that almost four in five (79%) of respondents reported feeling judged, watched, or had received negative comments when using disabled bays. Three in four (75%) said they had either had to cancel a journey or seek alternative parking arrangements.
DMUK said: "These figures underline how parking availability directly affects independence and day-to-day mobility."
How to get involved
DMUK is asking all disabled drivers and anyone who travels with a disabled person by car to take part in the survey and share their parking experiences at the six supermarkets during August. It asks people to "observe and record conditions in car parks across the UK", gathering information on the availability of designated disabled bays, the frequency of misuse, and the general quality and visibility of signage and markings.
The findings will be compiled into reports to help inform improvements in policy, design standards, and enforcement practices. The survey is available on the DMUK website.
