Crackdown on Blue Badge abuse in Kent assisted by new technology

A new mobile phone app is being used in Kent to crackdown on those using the Disabled Persons' Blue Badge scheme fraudulently.

The system, which is now being used in Dartford and Tonbridge Council and Malling Borough Council, allows Civil Enforcement Officers to check the legitimacy of blue badges on the spot.

Officers will now be able to confirm that a badge is valid and is being used by the badge-holder.

Members of Kent County Council's Counter Fraud Team spent two days training officers on the new system, which has already seen 72 people's badges inspected.

Of those 72, the majority were found to be using the badges correctly. However, four people were identified to have been using the scheme fraudulently and will now have enforcement action taken against them.

The council says a change in eligibility criteria has increased the number of badges issued in Kent, further highlighting the need for these spaces to be used for "legitimate purposes".

James Flannery, KCC's Counter Fraud Manager, said

"This continues our proactive approach of working with district and borough councils in ensuring the blue badge scheme works for those that need it."

"The Civil Enforcement Officers involved told us this was the best training they had ever received, and this system will allow them to target those who are causing an inconvenience to those members of public who are genuinely in need.

"Although most Blue Badge holders respect the rules of their use, KCC and the two borough councils will not tolerate the abuse of the system by the minority who misuse the scheme."

Anyone who suspects another person using a Blue Badge fraudulently can report it on Kent County Council's website.