DUDLEY councillors approved a notice of motion at Monday's full council meeting to help people at risk of losing their Blue Badges as a result of government changes.

UKIP councillor Paul Brothwood brought to council the motion calling on the council to help ensure vulnerable people affected by a recent Department for Transport consultation exercise on eligibility for the Blue Badge scheme are treated fairly.

Cllr Brothwood told the members of the council that "in the event of the criteria for Blue Badges changing many of those affected will need substantial help and guidance and the staff who administer the scheme will need additional training".

And he called on the council to direct officers to work with relevant bodies to enable discussions to take place and prepare a document to be scrutinised by the relevant council committee before going to cabinet and full council.

He said: "Before Parliament rules, all efforts must be made to ensure fair treatment of all who apply or request renewal of the Blue Badge."

Labour councillor Tim Crumpton, who seconded the motion, said it was "worthy of being brought before this council".

Conservative councillor Nic Barlow, cabinet member for adult social care, said: "I think this is an excellent approach to tackle this issue. From our side we'll be working with everyone concerned to make sure policies we have in place are as seamless as possible."