If you’ve recently had a Blue Badge application refused or been denied a renewal, you’re not alone — and importantly, you have the right to ask for a review.
Whether you’re facing mobility issues or dealing with a change in benefits (like moving from DLA to PIP), this guide will help you understand your next steps and give you the confidence to challenge the decision.
🚫 Why Your Application Might Be Refused
Councils sometimes refuse Blue Badge applications if:
- They don’t believe your mobility problems meet the eligibility criteria.
- You didn’t provide enough evidence.
- You moved from Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to Personal Independence.
- Payment (PIP) and no longer automatically qualify.
- They believe the badge was misused.
✅ When Should You Ask for a Review?
It’s worth requesting a review if:
- You can’t walk more than 80 metres – about the length of 7 double-decker buses.
- You can’t use a parking meter because of issues with your arms or hands.
- You feel the decision doesn’t fairly reflect your mobility or condition.
- You were refused renewal but still hold a valid Blue Badge (you can continue to use it while waiting for the review result).
✍️ How to Challenge the Decision
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Read your decision letter carefully.
Your council should explain why your application was refused. -
Follow the instructions in the letter.
Some councils will include a form to complete, others will ask you to write your own letter. Reply to the address or contact given. -
Explain why the decision was wrong.
Be as specific as possible. Mention anything you might’ve missed the first time, like:- Why using parking meters is difficult
- How far you can realistically walk
- Daily challenges your condition causes
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Include supporting evidence:
- A letter from your doctor, physiotherapist, or healthcare provider
- Proof of address (e.g. council tax or utility bills)
- Proof of ID (e.g. passport or driver’s licence)
- Get help if needed.
Your local Citizens Advice office can support you in writing your response.
💡 What If Your Badge Was Taken Away?
If your Blue Badge was revoked (e.g. for misuse or because of a benefit change), it’s still worth explaining your circumstances in detail. You may have a valid reason, and councils will sometimes reconsider if the misuse was unintentional or due to a misunderstanding.
😡 What If the Council Won’t Review It?
If your local authority refuses to review your application, or if you’re unhappy with the process:
- Make an official complaint via the council’s website or contact details.
- Still not satisfied? You can escalate it to the Local Government Ombudsman:
Local Government Ombudsman
PO Box 4771
Coventry
CV4 0EH
📞 0300 061 0614
(Mon–Fri, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm)
📌 Final Tips
- Keep copies of everything you send.
- Call your council if you’re unsure how long the review will take.
- If your Blue Badge is still valid, you can keep using it until you get the result of your review.
- Need help writing your appeal? Drop us a message or contact your local Citizens Advice – you don’t have to go through this alone.