The biggest change to the Blue Badge scheme since the 1970s recently came into force. We reveal what has changed and how you can apply for a Blue Badge.
Sections
Blue Badge scheme changes
On 30 August 2019, the Blue Badge scheme changed, making people with 'hidden disabilities' such as autism and dementia eligible for the scheme.
We reveal everything you need to know about the changes and how to apply for a Blue Badge.
What is the Blue Badge scheme?
The Blue Badge scheme was introduced as a way of helping people who are blind or have physical mobility problems park closer to their destination.
The badge is linked to the disabled person rather than a vehicle. It can be used for cars the badge owner is driving themselves or travelling in as a passenger, which includes taxis and hire cars.
There are around 2.35 million Blue Badge holders in the UK as of 31 March 2018.
Carer's Credit 2018: what is it, are you eligible and how to claim
What are the changes to eligibility?
Who can apply for a Blue Badge?
Where can a Blue Badge be used?
Fines for parking in a disabled bay
Obviously no-one should park in a bay reserved for disabled people.
But if you park in a local authority disabled bay, you will be liable for a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
There are two levels of PCN charges and the fine for parking in a disabled bay is set at the higher rate.
In London, it is £130 for the higher rate while outside London it is £70. You can get a 50% discount on the charge if you pay the PCN within 14 days.
In car parks such as the ones at supermarkets or train stations, any fines for parking in disabled bays are more difficult to enforce.
This is because the laws related to parking on private land are under contract law and differ from local authority regulations.
“We run a campaign, Baywatch, monitoring the abuse of disabled bays in supermarket car parks," says Footer.
“The 2019 results revealed that one in five bays is occupied by a vehicle without an accompanying Blue Badge.
“With the anticipated increase in Blue Badge holders as a result of the changes in legislation, it's especially vital to step up enforcement and to raise awareness among the general public about why these bays should be respected.”
Penalty Charge Notice: how to challenge and beat unfair parking fines
Can I challenge a PCN?
If you get think you’ve incorrectly been given a PCN, you can make challenge it – you have 28 days to do this.
You need to explain your reasons for challenging the charge and provide copies of any evidence to support your challenge.
If your challenge is rejected, you will then get a ‘notice to owner,’ which explains how to pay or how to make a formal challenge.
For more details on the appeals process, check out this useful page on the Gov.uk website.