A new study has found that cases of blue badge thefts has increased significantly since the pandemic (Image: Getty)
Local authorities are coming under pressure as a begin to target a certain item from inside .
Whilst often focus on from vehicles, such as stereo systems, alloy wheels, and catalytic converters, the latest trend among thieves is to used by disabled motorists to park in larger and more convenient spaces.
Speaking on , accessibility consultant and blue badge holder Dr Shani Dhanda noted that the item is difficult to cancel when it is stolen.
She explained: “The first time my badge was stolen, it took me six months to get a replacement, just because there were delays with the council. When I called, I was dismayed that they couldn’t cancel the stolen blue badge, so it’s just going to happen again, and again, and again.
“It takes a lot of medical evidence to get a badge in the first place, and not only is it hard to get, it seems that it’s really hard to keep.”
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A blue badge is required for a motorist to park in a disabled space, and is registered to the owner (Image: Getty)
Over 5,000 blue badges were reported stolen between November 2023 and October 2024, with cases surging by over 50% in three years.
Many criminals are particularly targetting blue badges in order to sell them on the black market, with passes selling for as much as £6,000 a piece.
One of the reasons why so many badges have been stolen is because they are registered to the driver or occupant, rather than the vehicle itself, making it much easier for others to illegally use.
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Some local councils have trialled virtual blue badges, which are more difficult to steal (Image: Getty)
Shani suggested that crime rates could significantly fall if a new virtual blue badge was introduced, with trials seeing a sharp improvement.
She added: “What I would love to see is the introduction of a virtual option. I know that some councils have trialled it and it’s really reduced theft – by about 65%.
“It really made me feel disabled. I feel like my health condition doesn’t disable me. It’s not having access that really disables me.”
Drivers who wish to keep their blue badge safe are widely urged to invest in a protector, which is available online or from most motoring accessory shops for around £30.
These devices put the blue badge into a lanyard-style case, which is then attached via a lock to the top of the steering wheel, making it harder and more time consuming to remove by a thief.
Many of these devices have a smart appearance and are easy to fit before leaving the vehicle unattended.