Earlier this year, we reported that worrying new figures on blue badge theft and misuse in London were published, following an enquiry by Unmesh Desai, the London Assembly Labour lead on Policing and Crime.
As a result of this, BBFI is working with Mr Desai, as well as Liam Conlon MP, to further drive forward the issues facing blue badge users in the disabled community every day. On Thursday 5 December, we were delighted that as a result of this partnership and work, the following motion was raised at the London Assembly
“This Assembly notes that: Blue Badges are crucial for enabling mobility and accessibility for disabled individuals, providing access to essential services, employment, and community participation. However, it concerns the Assembly that Blue Badge theft has quadrupled over the past decade.
Blue Badge theft is an extremely serious crime. Perpetrators seek out and victimise disabled people, ultimately robbing them of their independence. Reports from badge holders and advocacy groups have highlighted the impact of Blue Badge theft, including instances of harassment and targeting. Stolen badges are often sold illegally, putting individuals with disabilities at further risk of crime and exploitation.
This Assembly recognises Disability Awareness Day, and wider UK Disability History Month, as an important occasion to reaffirm our commitment to protecting the rights and independence of disabled individuals. In this spirit, we encourage all authorities to proactively protect the rights of disabled motorists and apply the full force of the law to those who target them. We emphasise the importance of taking further action to prevent Blue Badge theft and support those affected by these crimes.
This Assembly calls for:
- The Mayor and the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime to advocate for the Met to give additional training to officers in identifying and responding to Blue Badge theft, to prevent these crimes and ensure that victims receive appropriate support.
- The Mayor and the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime to launch an awareness campaign informing Londoners of best practices for safeguarding their Blue Badges with increased access to secure Blue Badge protectors.
- All London councils to follow the lead set by the London Boroughs of Hammersmith & Fulham and Waltham Forest and give their parking departments access to the enforcement module of the Blue Badges database provided by the Department for Transport. This will enable thousands of Council staff to identify vehicles with stolen badges.
- All London councils to streamline processes for the replacement of Blue Badges, so that disabled people are not left immobile for an extended period.”
The motion was proposed in the name of Marina Ahmad AM and was seconded by Joanne McCartney AM . We were delighted that following debate and upon being put to the vote, the motion was agreed unanimously, meaning it will be debated in the House of Commons. Watch the motion here:
As a Community Interest Company, BBFI – The National Agency for Blue Badge Fraud Investigations has a team of experienced investigators, including ex or retired police officers who partner with local authorities to investigate and prosecute those that are misusing Blue Badges. Being on the ground and providing support on a local level is just one of the practical ways we help local authorities drive down incidences of Blue Badge misuse. We are also instrumental in gathering evidence for badge prosecution cases.
BBFI is working tirelessly to tackle Blue Badge crime. Local authorities find partnering with us helps them reduce Blue Badge fraud. If you’re a local authority looking for help in this area, get in touch. Contact us to find out how we can help to enforce the Blue Badge scheme in your local area to increase compliance and improve safety for local people.
