The Transport Secretary has warned that millions of Blue Badge holders may be at risk of losing their permits, stating that some people currently receiving them should not be entitled to the benefit. Heidi Alexander argued that local councils are issuing badges to individuals who do not meet the necessary criteria, particularly following a 2019 rule change that extended eligibility to those with hidden disabilities such as ADHD and anxiety.
Surge in Blue Badge numbers
According to reports, the number of Blue Badges issued for hidden disabilities has risen sharply, from 18,000 in 2021 to 55,000 last year. Overall, approximately three million people now hold a Blue Badge, with more than one million new badges handed out in the past year alone. This surge has led to concerns that drivers with genuine mobility issues are struggling to find available parking spaces.
Heidi Alexander's statement
Ms Alexander emphasised that a diagnosis of ADHD alone should not automatically qualify someone for a Blue Badge. She stated: “Each application is assessed on its own merits, with local councils making decisions based on medical evidence.” She also highlighted that local authorities have robust powers to investigate suspected abuse and take enforcement action where necessary.
What is a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge is a national parking concession scheme in the UK designed to help people with severe mobility issues, disabilities, or health conditions park closer to their destinations. It allows badge holders to park free of charge in designated on-street parking bays and often permits parking on yellow lines for up to three hours. The badge is tied to the individual, not a specific vehicle, meaning it can be used whether driving or travelling as a passenger.
Eligibility criteria
Eligibility is split into two main categories: automatic qualification and assessment-based qualification. Automatic qualification applies to those who are registered as severely sight impaired or blind, receive the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, or have received a lump sum payment from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme with a permanent and substantial disability. It also includes those receiving specific benefit scores, such as the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with 8 points or more.
For those who do not automatically qualify, eligibility can be determined through assessment if they have a long-term, substantial physical or non-visible disability. This includes individuals who cannot walk at all or find walking very difficult due to severe pain, breathlessness, or time taken. It also covers people who pose a constant danger to themselves or others near traffic, such as those with severe autism, dementia, or intense anxiety causing temporary loss of behavioural control. Additionally, drivers with severe disabilities in both arms who cannot operate parking meters, and parents of children under three requiring bulky medical equipment or emergency medical treatment, may apply.
How to apply for a Blue Badge
The easiest way to apply or renew is online via the official GOV.UK website, though some councils accept paper forms. Required documents include a National Insurance number, a recent digital passport-style photograph, proof of identity (passport, driving licence, or birth certificate), and proof of address dated within the last 12 months (council tax bill or government letter). For automatic criteria, an official benefit award letter is needed. For assessment-based applications, medical evidence, diagnosis letters, or a GP summary should be provided.
After submission, the local council reviews the application and may request an independent mobility assessment with a healthcare professional. A small administration fee applies: up to £10 in England and Northern Ireland, £20 in Scotland, and free in Wales. The process typically takes up to 12 weeks, and if approved, the badge is valid for three years.
