Drivers across the UK who own and use a Blue Badge for parking are being urged to check their eligibility and ensure they have not let it expire.
The latest data from the Government found that there were 2.57 million people holding Blue Badges, as of March 31, 2023.
This represents an increase of 5.7 per cent since March 2022 and means that 4.6 per cent of the total UK population holds a Blue Badge.
Blue Badges are a vital lifeline for millions of drivers if they have issues with mobility as it allows them to park closer to businesses and supermarkets.
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Drivers are being urged to renew their Blue Badges before they expire
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Drivers in Wales do not have to pay for a Blue Badge, while English motorists will pay £10 and people in Scotland will be charged £20.
They will normally last up to three years, with drivers being urged to ensure their badge is still in date or they could potentially face parking fines.
If someone is found to be misusing the Blue Badge, they could be perpetrating a criminal act and could face a £1,000 fine and confiscation of the badge.
Drivers can use the GOV.UK website to replace a lost, stolen or damaged Blue Badge, although they must reapply if the badge is due to expire in less than three months.
When renewing or applying for a Blue Badge, drivers will need a recent digital photo in addition to a photo or scan of their proof of identity, proof of address and proof of benefits.
They will also need to know their National Insurance number and the details of their current Blue Badge.
Local authorities will usually make a decision within 12 weeks, with drivers being told why they are not eligible if their application request is refused.
Between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023, 1.14 million Blue Badges were issued - an increase of 101,000 badges or 9.7 per cent from the previous year.
It was suggested by the Government that the increase in the number of badges applied for was down to the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.
The data also showed that disabled adults in England made 25 per cent fewer trips than non-disabled adults in 2022, with a 35 per cent difference amongst those over 60.
People can apply for a Blue Badge if they care for a child who is disabled or has a health condition that affects their mobility, Citizens Advice states.
A petition has been launched calling on the Government to review rules relating to Blue Badges for children under three.
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Drivers need to renew their Blue Badge every three years
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The petition has around 5,000 signatures and highlights the "equalities impacts on disabled children", with many on social media hoping for a response from the Government.
A response will be given once it reaches 10,000 signatures and could even be considered for a debate in Parliament if 100,000 people sign the petition.
