Nottingham has seen an unusual and worrying trend this year: a sharp rise in people misusing Blue Badges that belonged to those who have passed away.
While some claim sentimental reasons or insist they “inherited” the badge, the truth is that this misuse is causing headaches for local authorities and genuine badge holders alike.
Since the start of 2025, the city council has already dealt with 77 cases involving deceased badges—up from 53 cases in all of 2024.
With four months still left in the year, the problem shows no sign of slowing down.
Excuses from Drivers Keep Rolling In
When caught, drivers have given a range of explanations.
Some said they used the badge “because it was still in date” or “for sentimental reasons.”
Others admitted they needed a badge of their own and thought it was fine to borrow one until they got theirs.
Some excuses stretched even further: “I inherited it with the car,” “nobody told me I couldn’t,” “it was only for seven minutes,” or “it was early and there were loads of spaces, so I don’t think I’ve done anything wrong.”
It’s clear that many people either don’t understand the rules—or choose to ignore them.
Blue Badge Misuse Beyond the Deceased
It’s not just the badges of those who have died that are causing problems.
Since January, Nottingham has seen over 500 cases of Blue Badge misuse. These include stolen badges, fake badges, expired ones, or badges whose use has been revoked.
Marcus Hall, a parking compliance officer with Nottingham City Council, has been on the job since 2001.
He explained that the centralization of the Blue Badge system by the Department for Transport has made enforcement easier, but misuse remains an ongoing challenge.
“Deceased badges are rising, with 35 out of 100 open cases involving them,” Hall said.
“Stolen and fake badges are also increasing. Some people even buy badges on social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
Most of the stolen ones come from London, and the fake ones are improving but still easy to spot.”
The Cost of Misuse
Misusing a Blue Badge doesn’t just block a parking space—it also costs the public money.
Most cases involve disabled parking spots in the city, depriving those who genuinely need them.
Caught misusing a badge can result in fines, Penalty Charge Notices, potential vehicle removal, and even legal action.
In some recent prosecutions, fines exceeded £1,500.
One striking case in March 2025 involved a Ford Fiesta displaying a badge cancelled more than two years earlier, after the death of an 80-year-old resident.
The driver, the deceased’s son, later admitted his actions were “selfish and stupid.”
Council Cracks Down on Misuse
Councillor Linda Woodings, executive member for regional development, growth, and transport at Nottingham City Council, delivered a firm warning: “Our message is simple—if you misuse or abuse a Blue Badge in Nottingham, you will be caught and face legal consequences.”
She emphasized the council’s commitment to protecting the scheme, which supports people with genuine mobility needs.
Fraudulent use is not just illegal—it’s unfair and selfish.
“When badges are misused, it reduces the availability of accessible parking for those who genuinely need it,” Woodings said.
“This can increase stress, reduce independence, and even cause missed appointments or opportunities for disabled people.
Enforcing the scheme is about fairness, accessibility, and dignity for legitimate badge holders.
We make no apology for holding those who misuse Blue Badges accountable.”
