News & Features

10% Rise in Blue Badges Held with No Increase in Accessible Bays

Posted in General News on Thursday, January 30th, 2025

On 31st March 2024 2.84 million Blue Badges were held in England this is a 10% rise compared to the previous statistics, and it means that 4.9% of the population now hold a Blue Badge. In addition, 2.93 million people (5.1% of the population in England) were entitled to a Blue Badge without further assessment, so once again, the stats show that not everyone who is entitled to a badge has one. Despite these significant numbers there has been no recorded increase in accessible parking bays. Therefore, it has become more important than ever to uphold the integrity of the scheme through proper use and effective policing. Unfortunately, the government has once again decided not to include the prosecution stats for Blue Badge misuse and abuse in these statistics. This is the third year in a row that this information has been omitted, and it makes it harder to hold local authorities to account for their enforcement of the scheme.  

Disabled Motoring UK’s CEO, Graham Footer said “With accessible bays being at a greater premium than ever before disabled motorists must make sure they use the Badge in accordance with the guidance. We also implore councils to adopt effective enforcement practices to stop the scheme being abused. Local authorities who manage the scheme well and provide accessible parking can apply for each of their car parks to be assessed for our Park Access accreditation. This means that disabled motorists can be assured that it is accessible. We also encourage as many councils as possible to take part in the National Blue Badge Day of Action and look to improve their management of the scheme long-term where appropriate.” To get more information about Park Access and find an accessible car park near you visit our Park Access page.     

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