It's time to stand up against Blue Badge

Local authorities need more power to detect and deter fraud, says the BPA’s Alison Tooze

Reported misuse of Blue Badges has increased by over 1,000%, highlighting the serious and growing problem of fraud and abuse of the scheme.

Statistics gathered by National Blue Badge reveal that between 2014 and 2023 the number of Blue Badges stolen in London alone increased by 400%, with the victims of this crime being those that rely on accessible parking in order get out and carry out vital everyday activities.

Misuse and fraud by dishonest drivers undermines the integrity of the Blue Badge scheme and makes day to day life more difficult for those who genuinely need it.

The range of abuse varies from intentional theft, organised fraud, producing & selling counterfeit badges online, using deceased people’s badges to the often presumed ‘innocent’ act of ‘borrowing Grannies badge’ just for free and convenient parking. For every badge being misused a space has been denied to a genuine badge holder, potentially preventing them from attending appointments, socialising and being able to get around independently.

For this reason the British Parking Association (BPA) is calling for local authorities to be given greater ability and mechanisms to effectively tackle the issue and put a stop to this ongoing abuse. Perpetrators are currently not deterred by the limited consequences for their action. 

The BPA is asking the government to acknowledge the scale and impact of this issue by reviewing the civil and criminal powers and resources available to tackle fraudulent and criminal activity in relation to Blue Badges, including consideration for introduction of penalty charges commensurate with the social impact of this behaviour.

The statistics around the level of Blue Badge misuse and fraud are shocking. We cannot continue to ignore this issue, especially when the victims are some of the most vulnerable in our society. Badge holders rely on accessible parking to carry out their day-to-day activities and for many it is a vital part of living an independent life. Perpetrators of Blue Badge misuse and fraud deprive genuine badge holders of this right to freedom, whilst costing ordinary taxpayers millions every year.

This must stop.

Alison Tooze is chief engagement and policy o?cer at the British Parking Association