Disabled badges and when they can be used can be like a minefield to wade through, especially if you are new to them.

Many of our clients will be eligible to have a disabled badge, even though they no longer drive their car, so often it will be the live-in carer who uses them. 

It is important that they are used correctly, because if they are used under the wrong situation, they can be revoked.

How should they be displayed?

• They must be placed right side up
• The front must be clearly visible through the windscreen
• The badge must be valid and in date

Note: Where there is a time limit to park, you need to set the time clock on the badge to show exactly when you arrived and when you are planning to leave. The clock on the badge should show the exact time, not more, or less.

What not to do with a disabled badge

Remember that there will be a fine of up to £1000 for misuse of the badge, so it is well worth knowing what it should not be used for.

• Do not give the badge to another person to borrow
• Do not use an expired badge
• Do not use the badge if you are just waiting and staying in the car

Where can we park?

• You are allowed to park on the street where there are parking meters and pay-and-display machines for as long as you need to be there.
• You are allowed to use disabled parking spots and parking bays with no charge and without a time limit. 

Where we cannot park

• While you are permitted to park on double or single yellow lines for up to three hours, you are not permitted to park in a loading/unloading zone at any time.
• You are not permitted to park on the yellow lines in any areas of off street car parks.

There are several myths attached to disabled badges which may be confusing, so let’s dispel them.

Family and friends can also use the badges

No, they cannot use the badge unless they are driving your client in their own car. The badge is not to be used to park closer to the supermarket unless your client is getting into the car. 

The badge will have a registered name printed on it and only that person can use it, so unless your client is with you, the badge is not to be used.

The only people who can use the badge are those in wheelchairs

Not true. The badge can be used by anyone with mobility issues. This includes anyone with prosthetics. The truth is that anyone who has difficulty walking a short distance is eligible to use a badge.

We can park wherever we like with the badge

No, this is not true. Loading bays are out of bounds. It is not permitted to park on the safety lines at any junctions and neither is the use of the badge permitted on any private land.

The doctor issues the badge

No, he does not issue the badge. Your client or their representative must apply for the badge to the local council. The doctor plays no part in this. A questionnaire must be completed before the badge is issued.

Once issued the badge lasts for life

No, this is not true. Badges expire after three years and to obtain another one, a form needs to be completed and submitted. Badges are never automatically renewed so it is important that you and your client note the expiration date and re-apply in good time. 

Normally, the badge will be renewed within a few weeks. If the new form is not completed and sent off, the badge will expire and be voided. The entire process will have to be completed to get a new one.

Final thoughts

Never be tempted to use the badge when your client is not in the car with you. The fines are enormous and you may find that you are asked to pay it yourself if the badge is used incorrectly.

Abusing the privilege of the disabled badge is not looked on very kindly by officials, and you can be sure of receiving a fine. Sometimes it is not worth the risk just to be closer to the supermarket.

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