'Postcode lottery' for blue badge applicants with non-visible disabilities

Video report by Katie Cole

A North East mother, whose son has autism, is calling for a better understanding of hidden disabilities.

It comes after figures suggest many applications for a blue badge permit are being refused by councils.

In 2019 the scheme was extended to include people with non visible disabilities like autism and brain injuries. However, new data suggests that people with physical impairments are much more likely to be approved for a disability badge, with claims that it is a 'postcode lottery'.

Lyndsey Baxter from Hebburn has a badge for her son Oscar, but says the system is too complex for some families to navigate.

An investigation by the BBC's shared data founds 80% of UK councils had higher rates of approval for people with physical impairments, compared to those who have hidden disabilities.

Durham County Council is highlighted as one of the local authorities with the starkest differences. 

In response to the figures, Durham County Council told ITV Tyne Tees that the criteria to be approved requires sufficient evidence.

The government says it will review the impact of the new criteria.