Not directly Benefits, but indirectly connected.

A fair number of LA's are now processing these applications electronically over the the telephone into a computer - within 10 seconds of the last question being asked, the computer has made the decision. If it's a failure then the client is told what their appeal rights are over the phone.

However, if the client asks for a paper form, they are told quite firmly that they can't have one because they are no longer available - due to a change in policy ......the question is, is this is actually legal, or is there legislature out there similar to that available under DWP regs ?.

Hi
I would think that this is not about the rules concerning eligibility for Blue Badges as such, but more a possible disability discrimination matter -- the issuing local authority are obliged to make any reasonable adjustments to their application procedures so that it is not 'impossible or unreasonably difficult' for a disabled person to receive that service.

So a deaf person, for example, could say that a telephone only application procedure should be adjusted, as it's a barrier to them getting the same service as anyone else.

I think it is up to the disabled person to show that they would genuinely have difficulty in using the standard procedure, but then the LA would have a duty to make a reasonable adjustment -- issue a paper form, arrange a one to one interview with a BSL interpreter, whatever that individual client needs.

Also local authorities have a Disability Equality duty covering the need to promote equality of opportunity for disabled people - and this is precautionary, ie, they should think about this before problems arise and have alternative procedures in place.

So if they refuse to make reasonable adjustments someone should remind them of their duties under the DDA

alban

Everying you are looking for is on this link Mike, including references to legislation. Page 23 of the guidance relates to appeals,

http://www.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/access/bluebadge/localauthorities/

The 'Blue Badge Reform' letter has a few tips too.

Thanks for that Steve.....how old's the photo on Facebook...?

That's worrying Mike! I don't have a facebook account. But there are a couple of other Steve Gales in Paignton.

Ahh, that explains it - the other one gives Am dramatics as a hobby......

Too much amateur dramatics in our office to go looking for more!