New System Put In Place To Speed Up Blue Badge Applications

An online application form has been launched to help speed up the process for people applying for, or renewing blue badge parking permits.

 

Now the new application process, which has been developed by East Riding of Yorkshire Council alongside the East Riding Disability Action Group, could see those who are automatically eligible receive their blue badge within days rather than weeks.

Mark Baggley, chair of East Riding of Yorkshire Disability Action Group, said:

“I think it’s a great innovation by the council to enable disabled people to apply for, or renew, their blue badges online.

“For those disabled people who are able to use technology this can save them time, speed up the process and save them making unnecessary journeys.

“It should also free up resources to enable council staff to have more time to support those who need to apply in person at a customer service centre.

“Through the East Riding Disability Action Group, disabled people have been directly involved in the development of the scheme, ensuring the council has a better understanding of our requirements from this type of service.

“Assisting the council in improving its services to disabled people is exactly why the action group is there and this is a great example of the work we are trying to do.”

The application form can be completed by the individual or by a family member or friend, as long as they have access to the relevant information and documents that need to be uploaded onto the form.

Once the application form is submitted and a £10 administration fee has been paid, a decision as to whether the applicant is eligible for a blue badge is made instantly.

For some people who don’t automatically qualify, it may be necessary for an appointment to be made for an assessment at an independent mobility assessment clinic, for which details will be provided.

Using the online form also removes the need for people, particularly those who are just renewing their badges, to make unnecessary journeys to customer service or multi-service centres although staff will be available to assist those who still need help to complete the application form.

Applying for a blue badge fraudulently or using a badge that does not belong to you is a criminal offence which carries a penalty of up to a £1,000 fine and results in the badge withdrawn from the holder.

The new online form does have procedures in place to check for fraudulent applications whilst there is also a function for people to report any blue badge misuse.

Councillor Shaun Horton, portfolio holder for community involvement at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said:

“I welcome the introduction of this process which is aimed at speeding up the process of applying for blue badges.

“Innovations like this are designed to make life easier for our residents and for many people, completing the form online will be beneficial but for those who do need assistance in completing the application form, staff at the council’s customer service centres will still be available to help.”

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