Wheelchair-bound amputee denied blue badge renewal by council

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 16:08 · Archive

A 71-year-old amputee in Norfolk has been denied a blue badge renewal because the council says he has not provided sufficient medical evidence of mobility difficulties.

Nigel Ward, 71, from King's Lynn in Norfolk, had his blue badge application rejected by Norfolk County Council, which asked for further medical evidence of his mobility difficulties. Ward received his initial blue badge without issue after losing his left leg above the knee during a cruise accident three years ago. He was given a prosthetic leg and has held the badge since then.

When attempting to renew the permit, the council requested additional medical evidence. During conversations with a council worker, Ward was told that some amputees could walk or run without difficulty, and the worker suggested he might have a prosthesis allowing him to run marathons. The council insisted it was working within Department for Transport guidance and reportedly told Ward that a letter from his GP would not be sufficient evidence.

Ward said he cannot provide new medical documentation because he is otherwise healthy and no longer regularly sees a doctor about his amputation. He is considered 'independent' and only needs assistance if his prosthetic leg or stump malfunctions. However, his confidence in the prosthetic has been affected following a fall in which he broke his femur on his amputated leg. Ward described the situation as 'immensely' stressful for himself and his family.

How it is being reported

• Amputee, 71, told he 'might run Olympic marathons' in blue badge row with councilNigel Ward lost his leg three years ago while on a cruiseThe Independent · 14 Oct, 15:54
• Wheelchair-bound amputee with one leg is told he must supply more proof before he gets a blue parking badgeWheelchair-bound amputee Nigel Ward, 71, said journeys will be 'troublesome' without a blue badge, after his application for the parking permit was denied by Norfolk County Council.Daily Mail · 14 Oct, 11:26

In this story: Nigel Ward · Norfolk County Council · King's Lynn · Department for Transport

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