Home/

Your Guide to Applying for a Blue Badge in Burton on Trent: Step-by-Step Instructions

A Blue Badge is a disabled parking permit that provides various parking benefits to people with mobility issues or severe disabilities. Many of our clients at Home Instead rely on their Blue Badge to get out and about in Burton on Trent – ensuring they can access their favourite shops and local events. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying for a Blue Badge in Burton on Trent, highlighting the benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

What is a Blue Badge?

A Blue Badge is a permit issued by the local authorities to help people with disabilities or mobility issues park closer to their destination. This badge is displayed on the vehicle, allowing the user to access designated disabled parking spaces, park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours, and take advantage of other parking concessions.

Summary of Eligibility:

To be eligible for a Blue Badge, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  1. Receive the higher rate of the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
  2. Receive the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with a score of 8 points or more in the “Moving Around” component.
  3. Be registered blind (severely sight impaired).
  4. Receive a War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement.
  5. Receive a lump sum benefit under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (tariffs 1 to 8) and have been assessed as having a permanent and substantial disability that affects your ability to walk.
  6. Have a severe disability in both arms and be unable to operate a parking meter.
  7. Have a permanent and substantial disability that causes considerable difficulty in walking.

Benefits of a Blue Badge in Burton on Trent:

  1. Access to designated disabled parking spaces, which are often closer to the entrance of shops, offices, and other public places.
  2. Permission to park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours (unless there are restrictions on loading or unloading).
  3. Exemption from certain parking charges and time limits in pay-and-display parking bays.
  4. Access to some toll roads and congestion charge zones without extra fees.
A disabled person's parking disc set to 12, indicating the time of arrival, with a 3-hour parking limit. - Home Instead

Applying for a Blue Badge in Burton on Trent:

Staffordshire County Council is responsible for issuing Blue Badges in Burton on Trent. To apply for or renew a Blue Badge, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Staffordshire County Council Blue Badge webpage athttps://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Care-for-all-ages/Blue-badges/home.aspx.
  2. Read the eligibility criteria and make sure you qualify for a Blue Badge.
  3. Click on “Apply for a Blue Badge” to start your application.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the online application form. You will need to provide personal information, details about your disability, and any relevant documentation to support your application (such as proof of benefits or medical evidence).
  5. Submit your application and pay the required fee (currently £10).
  6. Your application will be assessed by the local authority, and you will be informed of the decision by email or post. If your application is approved, your Blue Badge will be sent to you by mail.

FAQ About Blue Badge:

Can someone else use my blue badge for me?

No, the Blue Badge is issued to the person with the disability, not the vehicle. It can only be used when the badge holder is in the vehicle, either as a driver or passenger.

Am I exempt from paying road tax with a blue badge?

No, having a Blue Badge does not automatically exempt you from paying road tax. However, you may be eligible for a road tax exemption or reduction if you receive certain disability benefits. Visit the DVLA website

What are the parking options available for Blue Badge holders?

The Blue Badge program operates across the UK, granting the privilege of parking in restricted zones, including single or double yellow lines (with varying time limitations). Nevertheless, the specific parking regulations may differ from one location to another.

Additionally, the Blue Badge can be used in numerous foreign countries.

How should I show my Blue Badge in my vehicle?

To properly display your Blue Badge, position it on your vehicle’s dashboard so that it is easily visible through the front windshield for enforcement officers to see. Make sure the side displaying the expiry date, issuing authority, and wheelchair symbol is facing upwards and visible.