Chris Vince MP welcomes changes to Blue Badge applications after campaigning on behalf of residents

News / Thu 10th Oct 2024 at 11:00am

EARLIER this week, it was announced that Essex County Council will modernise the Blue Badge application process. Chris Vince MP welcomed the news.

Following his recent election in July, Chris began campaigning immediately for the people of Harlow and the surrounding villages. One of the key campaigns he has been running is a call for the reform of the Blue Badge application process, after many residents contacted him with their concerns, alerting him to the difficulties they experienced during their applications.

Mr Vince said: “Since becoming the Member of Parliament for Harlow and the villages, I have continued to campaign on behalf of my constituents regarding shocking reports of 12-week delays in receiving Blue Badges.

Yesterday’s announcement that Essex County Council is introducing a new process for handling applications is very welcome. This comes just 8 weeks after I wrote to the leader of Essex County Council, Kevin Bentley, highlighting the importance and urgency of this issue.

My hope is that the barriers that previously existed will now be removed, and those who need it can easily apply for and renew their Blue Badges.

This is a step in the right direction for Essex, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and support they need. I will continue to campaign for the people of Harlow and the villages to get what they need.”

This inclusive digital solution is expected to go live in December this year.

If you are still facing problems with your own applications, please contact the MP’s office by emailing [email protected].

3 Comments for Chris Vince MP welcomes changes to Blue Badge applications after campaigning on behalf of residents:

Brian Aston

2024-10-10 12:36:56

Having just recently gone through the Blue Badge application process, while I found it, at times, a frustrating process, I understood the need for all of the forms and double checking of information. I am a wheelchair user, and this is was my second attempt at the application after the first was rejected. This time, the total application process took 3 hours, both in terms of gathering the required evidence and documentation, and completing the online form. From submission to approval it took 4 weeks, with my badge arriving a few days later. I didn't face any barriers during the whole process. And, to be honest, after the comments I have read on YH regarding response times from Mr Vince, 12 weeks wait would have probably have been quicker

Nostradamus

2024-10-11 08:34:48

Brian, remarkable that it took 2 applications, 3 hrs gathering evidence and 4 weeks admin to establish you need a wheelchair and hence a Bluebadge. It's a ridiculous amount of time to take to establish what a note from your doctor could confirm in minutes. Your experience exposes the fact that the system is a failure.

View from Afar

2024-10-11 15:43:03

Part of the problem is you have to keep looking at the website to see if there are any updates or further information required. They need to at least email the applicant if there are issues with the application. My wife waited 16 weeks before she received her new badge and the original one was well past it’s expiry date.