Understand
Norfolk amputee asked for further proof during blue badge renewal
Overview
Nigel Ward, a 71-year-old amputee from King's Lynn, has been asked by Norfolk County Council to provide further medical evidence to renew his Blue Badge, despite having submitted photos of his missing leg. Ward, who lost his leg three years ago, stated he no longer attends regular medical consultations because he is fitted with a prosthetic limb, making it difficult to supply the requested medical documentation. Norfolk County Council maintains that it follows Department for Transport guidelines requiring all applicants, including those with permanent disabilities and those reapplying, to adequately evidence their walking difficulties with each application.
Key points
- Nigel Ward was asked to provide additional evidence to renew the Blue Badge he was granted three years ago.
- Ward submitted photographs of his missing leg, but a council worker suggested amputees can run marathons and requested further verification.
- Norfolk County Council stated there is no renewal process, requiring all applicants to submit evidence with every application regardless of whether their disability is permanent.
- Ward explained he cannot provide current medical evidence of limited mobility because he no longer needs regular doctor consultations after receiving his prosthetic limb.
- The Department for Transport stated that individual application decisions are handled by local authorities following national guidance.