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Government Orders Review of Blue Badge Guidance With Possible Temporary Permits Next Year

Officials are responding to cross-party pressure after seriously ill patients were refused permits under long-term disability tests.

Overview

  • Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood said the Department for Transport will update advice to councils on using existing powers for people with temporary or fluctuating mobility needs.
  • The review does not change core eligibility criteria at this stage but could lead to clearer, practical guidance issued in 2026.
  • Under current rules, applicants not qualifying automatically must show an “enduring and substantial” limitation, commonly interpreted as lasting three years.
  • MPs from across parties and charities cite cases involving chemotherapy, dialysis and amputations, with data highlighting high travel and parking costs for patients and families.
  • Some councils, including Kent County Council, oppose discretionary expansion over cost, capacity and fraud concerns, while campaigners point to North Lincolnshire’s temporary ‘Green Badge’ as a workable model.