Hackney Council has retracted its problematic disabled parking assessment system, which has disproportionately impacted permit applicants. The decision was partly prompted by complaints from a resident who appealed after being denied a blue badge. The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman deemed the council's policy inconsistent with government guidance, suggesting many deserving residents might have been wrongly denied. In response, the council committed to writing to all affected individuals since January 2024 and offered an additional in-person appraisal for those previously assessed under the questionable guidelines. The council also issued an apology and compensation to one affected resident.
Councillor Christopher Kennedy confirmed that Hackney Council would write to all 149 individuals refused a permit since January 2024, acknowledging a flawed assessment system.
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, Amerdeep Comal, criticized Hackney's policy for making it "very difficult for people with disabilities to qualify for a permit."
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