Verification Process

Our Verification Process

We want the Blue Sky Social Care Card to provide meaningful recognition while ensuring that every card is issued to a genuine and eligible applicant. Our verification process is designed to be fair, proportionate and accessible.

Identity checks

Before a card can be issued, we check the applicant’s identity and the information provided during the application. Applicants may be asked to provide suitable identification and evidence confirming their caring role.

We check that the information provided is consistent, genuine and sufficient to demonstrate eligibility. Where appropriate, evidence may be verified with the organisation or professional that issued it.

Evidence and conflicting information

We accept a range of evidence because there is no single document that every unpaid carer will have.

If evidence is incomplete, unclear or does not provide enough information to confirm eligibility, we may contact the applicant to request further information. Where two pieces of evidence conflict, we will assess the information available and may request clarification or additional evidence before making a decision.

We will not automatically refuse an application because an applicant cannot provide one particular type of evidence.

Decision making

Applications are assessed against our eligibility and verification requirements. Decisions are made using the evidence available and, where necessary, additional information provided by the applicant.

Where an application cannot be verified, we will explain what further information is needed wherever possible. If an application is declined, applicants may be given the opportunity to provide additional evidence or request a review of the decision.

Our aim is to make consistent, evidence-based decisions while recognising that caring circumstances can vary considerably.

Renewal and expiry

Blue Sky Social Care Cards are issued for a defined period and have an expiry date. This helps ensure that verification remains current.

Before expiry, cardholders may be asked to confirm that they continue to meet the eligibility requirements and provide updated evidence where necessary. A card that has expired should not be presented as current verification.

Renewal is not necessarily automatic, and continued eligibility may need to be confirmed.

Misuse and fraudulent applications

The card is intended only for the person to whom it has been issued. It must not be shared, transferred or used by another person.

We may investigate suspected misuse, false information or fraudulent applications. Where appropriate, a card may be suspended, cancelled or withdrawn, and future applications may be refused.

Businesses and organisations accepting the card remain responsible for deciding whether to offer any associated discount, concession or benefit.

Turnaround times

We aim to process applications as quickly as possible while carrying out appropriate verification checks.

Straightforward applications with sufficient evidence are normally processed within 14 working days. Applications requiring additional information or verification may take longer.

We will contact applicants if we need further information that could delay the application.

Data retention and deletion

We only collect and use information that is necessary to process applications, verify eligibility, administer the card and meet our legal and regulatory responsibilities.

Verification information is retained only for as long as it is reasonably necessary for these purposes, in accordance with our data retention requirements and Privacy Policy.

When information is no longer required, it will be securely deleted or disposed of, unless we are legally required to retain it for longer.

For more information about how we collect, use, store and protect personal information, please see our Privacy Policy.

Reasonable adjustments and accessibility

We recognise that some applicants may face barriers when completing an online application or providing evidence.

Reasonable adjustments are available where required. This may include additional support with the application process, alternative ways of providing information, accessible formats or additional time where appropriate.

If you need a reasonable adjustment, please contact our team and we will work with you to find a suitable solution.

Offline applications

We want verification to be accessible to people who cannot or do not wish to complete an online application. You can download or request a paper application online

Offline applications may be available by contacting our team. We can discuss the available options, provide information in an accessible format and support applicants through the verification process.

Our team can also explain what evidence is required and how it can be provided.

Our commitment

Our verification process is designed to balance recognition, accessibility and trust. We understand that unpaid caring does not look the same for everyone, and our approach aims to recognise genuine caring roles without relying on a rigid minimum number of hours.

If you are unsure whether your evidence is suitable, please contact us before submitting your application. We are happy to help.