Motorists are being warned that a common misunderstanding about Blue Badge use could lead to steep fines.
Many drivers believe the badge can be used in any vehicle or by anyone helping the holder, but experts have pointed out that this is incorrect and could result in a fine of up to £1,000.
The warning comes as more people travel with family or share vehicles during the summer months.
The badge is issued to an individual, not a vehicle, and can only be used when the badge holder is in the vehicle or is being picked up or dropped off.
Lee Cartwright, owner of Mobility Solutions Direct, said: "One of the biggest misconceptions is that a Blue Badge belongs to the car or can be used by family members whenever they're helping out.
"In reality, the badge belongs to the individual and should only be displayed when that person is actually making the journey."
He warned that while someone may think they are doing the right thing by using a relative’s badge to run errands or attend appointments, this is still classed as misuse and is not allowed unless the badge holder is present.
Mr Cartwright said: "Most people don't set out to misuse a Blue Badge, but misunderstanding the rules can still have serious consequences.
"Using the badge correctly helps ensure accessible parking remains available for the people it's intended to support."
Misusing a Blue Badge can lead to prosecution, confiscation of the badge, and fines of up to £1,000.
Councils across the UK continue to investigate and tackle fraudulent use.
DWP benefits that unlock automatic Blue Badge eligibility
People claiming DWP benefits could automatically qualify for a Blue Badge without needing to go through a full eligibility assessment - but thousands are missing out.
The Blue Badge scheme helps disabled people park closer to their destination and can make everyday journeys significantly easier.
Here's who qualifies automatically.
You automatically qualify if you receive one of these benefits
According to the guidance on GOV.UK: "You automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you are aged 3 or over and at least one of the following applies" before listing the qualifying benefits and circumstances.
You may be entitled to a Blue Badge without further assessment if you receive:
- Higher-rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with 8 points or more under the 'moving around' activity because you cannot walk more than 50 metres
- War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement
- A qualifying payment under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
- The mobility component of PIP with 10 points under descriptor E for 'planning and following journeys' because you are unable to undertake any journey due to overwhelming psychological distress
- If you are registered blind (severely sight impaired)
Not everyone on PIP qualifies automatically
People receiving PIP for other mobility reasons may still qualify for a Blue Badge, but they won't automatically receive one.
The guidance explains: "If you have any score other than 10 points under descriptor E, in the 'planning and following journeys' activity of PIP you may still be eligible for a Blue Badge, but you do not automatically qualify."
It adds: "You will have to provide evidence to demonstrate your eligibility which will be assessed as part of your application."
You may still qualify even if you don't receive these benefits
Even without one of the qualifying DWP benefits, your local council may award a Blue Badge if you:
- Cannot walk or can only walk with assistance
- Find walking extremely difficult because of pain or breathlessness
- Have a life-limiting illness and an SR1 form
- Have a hidden disability that makes journeys unsafe or extremely difficult
- Frequently experience overwhelming psychological distress when travelling
- Have a child under three with serious medical needs requiring emergency access to a vehicle
The Government says "Your local council will decide if you are eligible for a badge."
It also warns: "They cannot start the assessment process until they have all the necessary evidence. It may take 12 weeks or longer to assess your application."
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