Presently it is at the discretion of each Council as to whether they issue blue badges for non-permanent disabilities. It is the policy of Kent Council not to do this. Many people have long term, but not permanent, disabilities. The lack of a blue badge often means that these people are alienated from the rest of society, as they can not conduct their grocery shopping for themselves or engage in shopping, social activities, or even work.
On reaching 5000 signatures a full council debate will be held. If the petition achieves between 2500 and 9999 signatures it will be referred to the appropriate Cabinet Committee.
This ePetition ran from 17/11/2010 to 16/02/2011 and has now finished.
72 people signed this ePetition.
Currently, it is at the discretion of the Local Authority whether to issue Blue Badges for non-permanent disabilities, and it is the policy of Kent County Council not to do so except where:
• the temporary disability is substantial and likely to
last for more than 3 years.
• the person is in receipt of higher rate mobility or
Disability Living Allowance and the disability is likely to last
for less than 3 years, in such circumstances the badge is issued
for the specified period.
However, you may be aware that the issue of temporary badges is
being considered by the Department of Transport (DfT) as part of
its reform of the Blue Badge Scheme. Its decision will be informed
by research and is expected towards the end of the year. More
information on the proposed reform can be found on the DfT website
(http://www.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/access/bluebadge/reform
)