The National Blue Badge Week of Action is an annual initiative bringing Local Authorities together to protect the integrity of the Blue Badge Scheme.
The scheme plays a vital role in supporting disabled people to access services, maintain independence and park closer to their destinations. Protecting it ensures those who genuinely rely on it are not disadvantaged.
Misuse of Blue Badges undermines fairness, erodes public trust and impacts legitimate badge holders.
The Week of Action provides Local Authorities with an opportunity to:
• Conduct structured checks
• Reinforce correct usage
• Raise public awareness
• Demonstrate visible commitment to protecting the scheme
Participating councils undertake targeted checks and public engagement activity, supported by media coverage and awareness campaigns.
This may include:
• Focused badge verification checks
• Community engagement and education
• Public information campaigns
• Structured case review and follow-up
The initiative supports both enforcement and education, ensuring appropriate outcomes based on the evidence gathered.
The Week of Action receives support from organisations including:
• National Blue Badge
• The British Parking Association (BPA)
• Disability Motoring UK (DMUK)
• London Councils
Participation continues to grow year on year, demonstrating a shared national commitment to protecting the scheme.
Recent campaigns have seen strong engagement across the country, with tens of thousands of vehicles inspected and numerous cases reviewed.
Beyond immediate enforcement outcomes, the initiative strengthens public awareness and reinforces responsible badge use.
Publicity campaigns often include posters, leaflets, and media campaigns tailored to local circumstances.
Councils like Merton and Tunbridge Wells have emphasised the importance of educating both the public and Blue Badge holders about the proper use of their Badges.
These campaigns not only deter misuse but also provide genuine Blue Badge holders with the necessary information and support.
Public awareness campaigns are a vital component in preventing Blue Badge abuse.
Local Authorities utilise various methods, such as posters, leaflets, and media outreach to educate the public on the proper use of Blue Badges and the penalties for their misuse.
These campaigns aim to inform both Blue Badge holders and the general public about the importance of The Disabled Person Blue Badge Scheme and the impact of fraudulent activities.
Such efforts are crucial in maintaining the scheme’s integrity and supporting disabled individuals’ access to essential services.
Reporting and Community Involvement.
Community involvement is encouraged to help identify and report Blue Badge misuse.
Many Local Authorities provide hotlines and online platforms for the public to report suspected fraud.
For instance, East Sussex County Council has a dedicated hotline and email service for reporting misuse, emphasising the community’s role in maintaining the scheme’s integrity.