Blue Badge Parking Scheme

Changes to the Blue Badge Scheme

In February 2011, the government announced several important changes to the Blue Badge Scheme to make it fairer and more consistent across Local Authorities in applying for a badge as well as tackling misuse and fraud.  The Government have also appointed a new company called Northgate Information Systems to help Local Authorities administer the scheme more effectively as part of its overall Blue Badge Improvement Service (BBIS). These changes came into effect on 1 January 2012.

The changes include:

• creating a new national database of blue badges.
• the redesign of the blue badge making it harder to alter, copy or forge; the new badge will be made from PVC and PET instead of cardboard and will therefore be more robust.
• arranging the personalisation, printing and distribution of the new badge by a single supplier; this company will assist the Local Authority in administering the Scheme, not replace it.
• changing the way in which mobility assessments are carried out by using independent mobility assessments instead of General Practitioners.
• allowing Local Authorities to set their own fee of up to a maximum of £10 for a badge.
• the introduction of an online application process, allowing applicants to apply for new or replacement badges online. The address to access the online application form is: www.direct.gov.uk/bluebadge
• extending the scheme to cover armed forces service personnel and veterans and children under the age of three.

When will the government changes come into effect?

Local Authorities, like Manchester, have responsibility for the day-to-day administration and enforcement of the Blue Badge Scheme in accordance with legislation that governs the scheme. We have to ensure that badges are only issued to those residents of Manchester who satisfy one or more of the eligibility criteria set out in the appropriate legislation.

From 1 January 2012:

• Manchester City Council no longer makes up and distributes blue badges.  The government has appointed a company to redesign, print and distribute the new badge. These new badges will be harder to alter or copy.
• Local Authorities, like Manchester, will have to pay £4.60 for each badge (excluding VAT) purchased from this company.
• The government, through the Department for Transport, has given Local Authorities the go ahead to charge up to £10 for a (new, renewed, duplicate or organisational) badge. If charges are brought in, the badge fee will be non-refundable and payable only if your application is successful. The extra money will be used to improve the administration and enforcement of the Scheme.

How much will a badge cost?

Manchester City Council has not yet made a decision whether to charge customers for a blue badge. A decision will be made following a customer consultation, in which blue badge customers will be invited to take part. Until a decision is made, badges will be issued free of charge.

How can I apply for a badge?

From 1 January 2012, you may apply for a badge using the Directgov website and follow the instructions from there. This will only allow you to complete the application form on line and to upload your photographs. You will have to send in your further particulars to Manchester City Council separately in order that we can assess your application. These might include repeat prescriptions, proof of benefit/ DLA award letters, supporting letters from your GP or Consultant and Council Tax information.

As a last resort, you will be able to send your whole application directly to the council.

Whichever, method you choose to use, you will have to send in your further particulars to us separately in order that we can assess your application. These might include repeat prescriptions, proof of benefit/ DLA award letters, supporting letters from your GP or Consultant and Council Tax information. Please do not send originals of these documents with your application; copies will be destroyed by us after processing. If you are unable to send copies of your documents, you MUST ask that we return the originals to you.

From 1 January 2012, the old style badge is no longer supplied by the Council. However, if you have a badge issued by us before 1 January 2012 you may continue to use it until the expiry date.  Do NOT apply to have this badge replaced with the new style badge until the expiry date or unless it has been lost or stolen. You will then have to reapply for a new badge, if required, by logging onto the Directgov website or by contacting the Blue Badge Service.

Help and enquiries

If you have any questions about the changes to the Blue Badge Scheme, you may contact us directly at the address and telephone number in the right hand gold panel. 

If you would like to speak to someone about the forthcoming consultation, please contact the Blue Badge Service using the contact details on this page. 

If you would like help with your application, from 1 January 2012 you may:

• Visit your local library or Social Services District Centre where staff will be on hand to give advice but not in completing the form
• Visit our Customer Service Centre at Number One First Street , Manchester M15 4FN for advice and practical help in completing the form electronically. (see details on how to find the Customer Services Centre)
• Telephone or visit the Blue Badge Centre.