10.1 All applications are treated as ‘new’ applications and are assessed on the same basis regardless of whether the applicant has previously held a Blue Badge unless previously agreed by Expert Assessor as permanent.
10.2 All Blue Badges are processed through the Customer Services Blue Badge team:
- Application received
- Checked to ensure all documentation is valid and correct
- Non automatically eligible applications are sent for desktop assessment
- If approved the requested badge to be printed via Blue Badge Digital Service
10.3 All Blue Badges are printed and posted through DfT’s Blue Badge Digital Service. Badges must be sent to the applicants home address.
10.4 An application is only considered to be completed once all required supporting documentation, a suitable photograph and an application form has been received by Staffordshire County Council.
10.5 The normal period of issue for a Blue Badge is three years, unless entitlement is linked to an automatic qualifying benefit; in which case it will be issued for a period corresponding to the remaining term of this award (up to a maximum of three years). Badges issued to children under the age of three are issued until the child’s third birthday.
10.6 Staffordshire County Council has a fast-track application process in place for people who have a terminal illness that seriously limits their mobility.
10.7 Staffordshire County Council may make use of information from an applicant’s GP, Social Care, Educational Health & Care or from other professionals regarding an applicant’s condition(s) and treatment(s) as evidence to support the eligibility decision-making process.
10.8 Individuals must not be in receipt of more than one valid Blue Badge at any time.
10.9 Staffordshire County Council reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or re-issue a Blue Badge where abuse or misuse is reasonably suspected.