Decision Maker: Executive
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Is Key decision?: Yes
Is subject to call in?: Yes
Executive are asked to approve the
implementation of the Blue Badge Reform.
1 That the changes and additional responsibilities placed upon Adult Social Care and Health in administering the Reformed Blue Badge Scheme be noted.
2 The cost of administering this scheme as identified in the associated report be noted and that the funding for a full time Blue Badge Co-ordinator to undertake assessments to meet the newly acquired responsibilities be agreed.
3 That the charge of a Blue Badge be raised in line with guidance from Department of Transport from £2.00 for three years to £10.00.
The government has announced a significant reform of the Blue Badge Scheme aimed at ensuring a fair allocation of badges against a backdrop of rising demand so that the scheme remains sustainable in the long term.
The new reforms which are to be implemented from 1st January 2012 include extra responsibilities allocated to the Council as follows:-
To help local authorities cover costs more and to enable the delivery of the new badge design and the common improvement project, the maximum fee for a badge that the local authorities can charge will rise from £2 to £10.
In June 2011, funding for GP assessment was transferred from Health to the Local Authority, therefore, the cost of individuals needing further assessment to determine eligibility falls to the Local Authority.
There are no alternative options. The Local Authority must adhere to legislation relating to administering the Blue Badge Scheme.
None.
Wards Affected: (All Wards);
Financial Impact: Central Government grant.
Declarations: None.
Subject to Urgent Proceedings: No.
Making Representations: In writing to the Director of Adult Social Care & Health.
Other reasons / organisations consulted
Meeting(s) with interested parties
Public Notice
Consultees
National Consultation undertaken by
DOH
Contact: Mira Haynes, Chief Officer: Adult Social Care Email: mira.haynes@bracknell-forest.gov.uk Tel: 01344 351599.
Report author: Mira Haynes
Publication date: 15/11/2011
Date of decision: 15/11/2011
Decided at meeting: 15/11/2011 - Executive
Effective from: 24/11/2011
Accompanying Documents: