WQ93596 (e) Tabled on 24/07/2024

Will the Cabinet Secretary provide an update on the Welsh Government’s consideration of calls to update Blue Badge guidance to enable local authorities to award Blue Badges for life to those with chronic or deteriorating conditions?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Health, Social Care and Welsh Language | Answered on 25/07/2024

Blue badges are valid for three years. This length of award is set out in legislation and is common across the UK. However, applicants who will permanently meet the eligibility criteria can be awarded a badge on a ‘not for reassessment’ basis, which means that when re-applying in three years’ time they will not need to provide any additional evidence from healthcare professionals to support their application, only proof of identity and residency. We regard these as reasonable and proportionate requirements to protect the integrity and robustness of the Blue Badge scheme.