The British Parking Awards have recognised Sandwell Council and APCOA for cracking down on Blue Badge misuse and fraud to help protect spaces for people who are disabled or have mobility issues.
Since April 2023, Sandwell Council has brought 30 successful prosecutions for Blue Badge fraud. The authority has also issued a further 31 warning letters and cancelled one Blue Badge. The figures include 25 prosecutions and 18 warning letters since April 2024, showing how the crackdown has stepped up over the past year.
The council and APCOA were shortlisted in a new ‘breakout award’ category that recognises frontline teams taking action to deliver safer streets.
Sandwell has responded to people’s concerns about the growing misuse of Blue Badges, recognising how important it is to keep designated parking spaces available for some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents.
The council’s Counter Fraud Unit, Parking Enforcement Team, Adult Social Care Team, Legal Services and APCOA are all working together to tackle the issue.
Sandwell’s approach has involved further training for officers to identify, record and investigate suspected incidents of Blue Badge misuse to help pursue offenders, alongside raising greater public awareness of the proper use of Blue Badges and how Sandwell is taking firm action on fraud.
Councillor Paul Moore, Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader, said: “It’s great that our team has been recognised at a national level for their work.
“Misuse and fraud by dishonest drivers undermines the integrity of the Blue Badge scheme. It makes it more difficult for those who are disabled and with mobility issues trying to find a space. It’s unacceptable and our team will take action where we receive evidence.
“If you know, or suspect, someone may be misusing a blue badge, please let us know. Swift action will be taken. Please call our hotline on 0121 569 2650 or email fraud_investigation@sandwell.gov.uk with any information.”