Labour appears to have no plans to change UK Blue Badge rules after calls from politicians to update the criteria. In December, Andrew Rosindell, Conservative MP for Romford asked the Government if they have considered the “potential merits of widening the eligibility criteria for the Blue Badge scheme.”
Under the current rules, drivers and passengers will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if they meet a range of disability criteria. This includes anyone receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA). Some road users receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) will get a card, while many under the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation) Scheme will also benefit.
Anyone registered blind or severely sight impaired) or those receiving a War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement will also get a Blue Badge upon request. Among those who may be eligible for a badge includes anyone who cannot walk, individuals with a life-limiting illness or those with severe disabilities.
In 2019, the Government extended the eligibility criteria of the Blue Badge scheme in England, with people suffering from non-visible disabilities now also qualifying. Simon Lightwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department for Transport, revealed Labour was ensuring Blue Badges were released based on an “applicant’s mobility”.
They confirmed that badges would not be handed out “based on specific disabilities or conditions”.
Simon replied: “This 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.
“The Department for Transport works closely with local authorities and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the Blue Badge scheme remains fair, effective, and focused on those who need it most.
“The Department previously consulted on extending the Blue Badge eligibility criteria in 2019 to allow people with non-visible (hidden) disabilities to be eligible for a Blue Badge. The current eligibility criteria are focused on the impact on an applicant’s mobility, rather than based on specific disabilities or conditions, and can be found on GOV.UK.”
