Book Description

Disabled people may be missing out on special parking concessions because of where they live. This is the main finding of this report into the Blue Badge Scheme, which offers parking concessions for disabled people. It comes as the Government carries out a strategic review of the scheme. The Committee found wide differences in the way the eligibility criteria are assessed by different local authorities. It wants to see more done to promote consistent good practice across the country.The Committee's conclusions include: (1) the Committee wants to see the minimum issue period for a badge reduced from three years to one, to include those with short-term or temporary disabilities. It would also like to see "smart card" technology developed so there could be even more flexibility over the issuing of badges. (2) In cases where a blue badge holder's condition is unlikely to improve they should not usually have to undergo regular three-yearly assessments, but have their badge renewed automatically. (3) the Government should consider including central London, which currently has its own regime, in the national system. (4) eligibility for a blue badge should be based on mobility in a wider sense than simply on an applicant's ability to walk. But the Government should also look to more appropriate ways of helping people with other disabilities, such as bowel disease. (5) for those who knowingly abuse the scheme the Committee want to see tougher penalties. In particular, those who use stolen badges should have their vehicles impounded. A national database should also be established to help combat fraud. (6) the Security Industry Authority should take steps to prevent vehicles displaying a valid badge from being clamped when they are parked on private land. (7) the Committee also found that Asda was the only example given of a major national company which consistently fined people who abused its disabled bays.