A disabled North London man was denied a blue badge renewal after an assessor made insensitive comments. Council errors found.
Mr. B said his condition worsened, however, Harrow Council stated he didn’t meet criteria. The Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) looked into it, and Mr. B also said the assessor made rude comments.
Mr. B applied to renew his parking badge because he said he had issues walking. He limped and dragged his feet, which caused his knees to buckle. He also lost his balance often. He stated he fell three times last year and had other near misses, too.
He felt anxious going out and also suffered fatigue often. His consultant noted his unsteady gait and that he suddenly dropped to one side sometimes.
He had an assessment with the council where the assessor noted his slow walk and limp.
The assessor observed that Mr. B dragged a foot and stopped for pain, showing mild instability using steps during the assessment. Regardless, the council still denied his badge, making it difficult for him to get to shops.
The Blue Badge Scheme helps people with mobility issues and access essential services. Councils manage the scheme daily, including assessing eligibility for the badge. People who walk over 80 meters or those without significant walking issues usually don’t qualify. Councils mostly follow this guidance, but it is not legally required.
Mr. B said fatigue, not just pain, stopped him, and the assessor missed this point. Harrow Council denied his appeal, citing no evidence of recurrent falls. The LGO mentioned his report of three falls, but the council’s document did not include that fact.
The council said it considered the fall reports and wanted medical evidence, taking a balanced approach. The council addressed the assessor’s conduct, stating the comment was considered, but they didn’t fully investigate it because the assessment occurred months ago. They also claimed they no longer work with that organization.
The LGO said the council had failed here and noted Mr. B was upset by the remark, further stating that an investigation now wouldn’t help. The Ombudsman doesn’t retry cases but reviews the decision-making process. If followed correctly, the LGO can’t question it.
The LGO stated the council’s errors caused uncertainty and they sometimes suggest a decision review. However, the council has fully considered Mr. B’s situation now, using medical info and assessor notes. Because a new review won’t likely change things, the LGO did not recommend another review.
Harrow Council didn’t comment on the matter.