Free bus bas? Had no idea!

preciousillusions

I've just discovered that I can get a totally free disabled bus pass for my county (Surrey) for being in receipt of DLA! Before now I had no idea and just found out by chance through someone else. Am I totally stupid for missing this?

I know it's not an option available in all county's, but I wish someone somewhere had told me about this. I could have literally saved hundereds over the years with the amount I have paid out for bus travel. Feel a bit annoyed about it but not sure as to who or where that is directed exactly!

Just thought I'd post a heads up that if people are unsure it might be worth checking info regarding your local area as to whether they do this too, as wouldn't want others to miss out!

I am definitely getting mine sorted this week. Just need proof of DLA award (adults on higher or middle rate care, or higher mobility are eligible, and children on any rate mobility) and identity documents. Apparently they complete the form and take your photograph for you in the library, so it's all easily sorted there.

Just kicking myself for not doing this sooner!

xx

eta, for reference: http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/buses-and-trains/bus-and-train-fares-and-passes/free-bus-passes-for-60-plus-and-disabled-people

Lifeforms

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/BusAndCoachTravel/DG_10036264
It's England wide, same as a Scottish Scheme too. Welsh and N. Ireland too (iirc)

Also, worth while noting that some often will give you one, even if you are not in receipt of appropriate level of DLA by fulfilling certain criteria. For example, if you medically aren't able to drive (such as documented Diplopia aka double vision all the time, stopping you from applying for a licence, or having licence revoked due to it) or if your doctor will write a note saying you have issues with walking x amount.

Edited to add; Don't also forget if you have to use the train regularly to get yourself a Disabled Railcard. That can make a bit of a difference to costs too o.O

preciousillusions

^wow I really am stupid then! Trying not to think about the amount of money I might have saved had I known about this sooner, as I might cry!

Yeah have been considering the train pass too as do use the trains quite a bit. Need to get my bum in gear with this stuff clearly! Thanks .

Do feel like a bit of an idiot for starting this thread now! Oh well.

kingfisherblue

In Merseyside, the disabled person's bus pass also covers trains and ferries. In some areas (not Merseyside), you can also have a companion added to the bus pass.

mazza111

yes it's a +1 card it's called here, it lets your carer travel with you free as well. You should also check into swimming passes, sometimes you pay for one and the carer goes free. You can also purchase a ticket for something like £5 a year which allows a carer to go free with you to things like the cinema.

teajug

mazza111 wrote: »

yes it's a +1 card it's called here, it lets your carer travel with you free as well. You should also check into swimming passes, sometimes you pay for one and the carer goes free. You can also purchase a ticket for something like £5 a year which allows a carer to go free with you to things like the cinema.

The cinema pass is only for a carer not the disable person, it like buy one ticket and then get one free situation. Also the administration of the card payment is £5 for year.

mazza111

teajug wrote: »

The cinema pass is only for a carer not the disable person, it like buy one ticket and then get one free situation. Also the administration of the card payment is £5 for year.

Isn't that what I said....

You can also purchase a ticket for something like £5 a year which allows a carer to go free with you to things like the cinema.

Didn't realise it was an admin fee though. I know my sis has one. Her and her friend usually split the cost between them

luxor4t

Lifeforms wrote: »

......Also, worth while noting that some often will give you one, even if you are not in receipt of appropriate level of DLA by fulfilling certain criteria. For example, if you medically aren't able to drive (such as documented Diplopia aka double vision all the time, stopping you from applying for a licence, or having licence revoked due to it) or if your doctor will write a note saying you have issues with walking x amount......

I have a free bus pass as my walking is limited, it was based on a doctor's referral and my blue badge evidence (not sure how as I cannot find the links I used). I don't claim DLA as I am still able to work.
Daft thing is, I can't always lift my feet high enough to get onto the bus as we have a mixed fleet still .

Horseunderwater

luxor4t wrote: »

I have a free bus pass as my walking is limited, it was based on a doctor's referral and my blue badge evidence (not sure how as I cannot find the links I used). I don't claim DLA as I am still able to work.
Daft thing is, I can't always lift my feet high enough to get onto the bus as we have a mixed fleet still .

I have same issue with step climbing. I use my stick to press down on the pavement and then grab onto rails on the doors to help pull myself up. However that is only doable when up against a kerb. Away from a kerb I have no chance. So I know where you are coming from on the leg issue.

Wench

I have one of these, its valid for 5 years, and allows travel on any buses within England.

I had to apply at my local library for it. Was ever so easy, a few questions, photo taken ( your card has your photo on it ) and I recieved it in the post within a few days. :j

elaine12022

My OH has one, doesn't get DLA but got a doctors note to say how he fulfilled one of the criteria laid down by the Welsh Assembly.

I was really cross that nobody had told him before either, he could have had one for a few years before he did.

You may need to get a new one if you move county..