North Wales Senedd Member calls for fairer Blue Badge system
Carolyn Thomas MS, Chair of the Senedd’s Petitions Committee, is calling for urgent changes to the Blue Badge application and renewal system to better support people with lifelong conditions.
The North Wales Member of the Senedd has been working with STAND North Wales CIC, a community interest company supporting disabled people and carers, after a petition called for Blue Badges to be made lifelong for those with permanent conditions.
Ms Thomas said she had heard “heartbreaking” stories from people forced to go through complex and distressing renewal processes, despite having permanent disabilities.
She said: “This is a matter of social justice – people living with permanent disabilities or long-term conditions should not have to repeatedly prove their eligibility just to access the support they are entitled to. The current system is not just frustrating – it’s unfair.”
The Blue Badge scheme is governed by UK legislation but delivered by local councils in Wales. Concerns have been raised about inconsistencies in how applications are assessed and processed, with calls for clearer guidance, more training, and the introduction of a ‘not for reassessment’ marker for lifelong conditions.
To strengthen the case for reform, STAND North Wales has launched an online survey for those who have faced problems with the Blue Badge process. It can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DHKQ255
Cross-party support has been expressed, with Mark Isherwood MS also working on the campaign in his role as Chair of the Senedd’s Cross-Party Group on Disability.
Ms Thomas added: “The more evidence we can gather, the stronger our case for change. I urge anyone who has faced barriers or delays in the Blue Badge process to share their story. Together, we can make the system fairer and more compassionate.”
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