Procurement of Independent Mobility Assessments Provider

Description

Essex County Council (ECC) is committed to ensuring that the Blue Badge scheme, which provides parking concessions for individuals with disabilities, is administered fairly and consistently. The scheme aims to enhance the quality of life for disabled residents by allowing them to park closer to their destinations. To achieve this, ECC follows the Department for Transport's (DfT) national guidelines, which require certification from an appropriate expert assessor when eligibility cannot be determined through cross-checking or desk-based assessments. As the issuing authority, ECC is responsible for issuing Blue Badges to Essex residents in accordance with legislation and national guidance. To uphold this responsibility, ECC seeks a contractor to provide Independent Mobility Assessments conducted by qualified Expert Assessors. These assessments are crucial for determining eligibility in cases where ECC cannot make a clear decision, ensuring that badges are issued to those who genuinely meet the criteria, thereby enhancing accessibility and mobility for individuals with disabilities.