The new criteria will aim to give clear and consistent guidelines on Blue Badge eligibility for people suffering from a mental illness across the whole of England.

Connect. Feeling close to and valued by other people is really important. It doesn’t matter how old you are – social relationships help wellbeing and act like a buffer against mental health problems. Try to find ways to spend time safely with others you care about, such as family and friends. Why don’t you try a video call instead of messaging? You could even arrange to meet up safely (if it’s possible where you live). Tell people what you’ve been up to and how you’re feeling, then ask them how they are too and really listen to their answer. You could also do an activity together. Park without charge or time limits at on-street disabled bays, on-street parking meters and pay and display machines. You might be asked to do a mobility assessment. A health professional will look at your ability to carry out a range of mobility activities. They'll tell your council whether they think your health condition or disability limits your ability to move around enough for you to need a badge. Your local council will decide if you are eligible for a badge. They cannot start the assessment process until they have all the necessary evidence. It may take 12 weeks or longer to assess your application. If they decide that you are not eligible and you think that they did not take account of all the facts, you can ask them to consider your application again. What you need to apply for a Blue Badge You should describe your condition in as much detail as you can. Your problems walking have to be caused by a substantial and long term disability.

Resources and tools

healthcare or associated professionals that have been involved with the treatment of your condition

a recent digital photograph of the person the badge is for - this can be from your own device or from a photo booth or shop Be active. Regular physical activity helps people of all ages. It doesn’t have to be an organised, fast-paced activity such as football or pilates. You could follow a yoga video, go for a walk (at your own pace), or dance around your living room. Being active outdoors is great, if you can – sometimes it depends on the space and weather you have. Sometimes it’s nice to be alone, but you could also use being active to connect with other people where possible. You’ll need torenew your badge after 3 years. You'll also have to re-apply for a badge if you stop getting the benefit your badge is linked to.

Training and resources

you have received a lump sum benefit within tariff levels 1 to 8 of the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation) Scheme and have been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability that causes inability to walk or very considerable difficulty in walking You can also upload a recent digital photo. Just make sure the photos or scans are good quality and include all of the relevant information. The Blue Badge overhaul is part of the government’s drive for greater parity between physical and mental health conditions. What are the Blue Badge scheme changes?