Report blue badge cheats, council urges

Disabled drivers have accused people who misuse blue badges of being selfish.

North East Lincolnshire Council has reminded drivers about the rules after reports people were using them when not entitled to. The authority has asked people to report about anyone suspected of using a blue badge incorrectly.

Blue badge-holder Carolyn Cox, 66, said: "We live in a selfish society and people just do whatever's convenient to them and don't think about other people."

Councillor James Sawkins, portfolio holder for communities, said: "The rule is very simple, if it's not yours or the holder isn't with you, you can't use it."

The blue badge scheme is intended to help people park closer to their destination if they have a condition that affects their mobility.

The law states it may only be used when the holder of the badge is present in the vehicle.

The council said those found to be using a blue badge incorrectly could face a fine of up to £1000 and a possible prosecution. The badge can also be withdrawn.

Cox said she agreed with the policy.

"The fine is a lot of money, but it is reasonable. If you make choices you need to face the consequences," she said.

James Vardy, 77, and his wife, Pauline, 73, said their blue badges were essential for helping them leave the house.

He said he had only used his badge responsibly and believed those who did not should have them confiscated.

"People using them who don't need them is terrible, they're taking a space which a disabled person might need, and they'd have to park miles away, which is unfair for him or her."

Pauline added: "As soon as you find out someone is misusing one, take it off them and fine them."

The council said civil enforcement officers could ask to examine blue badges and failure to comply was a criminal offence.

Sawkins said: "People misusing them, whatever the circumstances, is not acceptable. These badges are for the holders and them alone."

In 2025, the Blue Badge Fraud Investigation agency warned badges were being faked, doctored, stolen and sold online.

Some were even being used by family members after the badge holder had died, the agency claimed.

Phil Brittain, from Blue Badge Protector, said there were a number of reasons for the rise in badge abuse.

"The cost for parking, so people will buy a black market blue badge to save on parking and, obviously, the convenience of being near a shop," he said.

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