Eligibility for a bus pass

Legacy_user

Hi, I have completed the form to apply for a new bus pass which has a substantial effect of my ability to walk due to asthma.

I was diagnosed with severe asthma, which only allows me to walk limited distances for a short time before becoming out of breathe, therefore needing to take regular refreshment breaks in between. I take Ventolin Evahaler and Clenil to help me deal with my symptoms.

I also don't receive the qualifying benefits for a bus pass; Higher Rate Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment, so I'm unsure whether this may effect my chances.

My local authority charges £10 to apply for one despite it being a free bus pass, slightly ironic. Would this condition make me eligible for one?

p00hsticks

I'm not sure if the criteria vary between local authorities, but here are the criteria for my local one (Stoke-on-Trent)

http://www.stoke.gov.uk/ccm/content/transport-and-streets/transport/public-transport/national-bus-pass-folder/disabled-bus-pass.en

As you say you do not receive DLA/PIP then it looks like if you lived here they would get in touch with your doctor for confirmation of how your condition affects you (I'm not sure how happy the doctor would be about that!)

Your local council website should have inforation relating to your local criteria.

People over on the disabilty board may also have some insight
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/forumdisplay.php?f=155

Kellyhealy74

Hi have lost my driving licence due to eplipsy and my local council offers a free bus pass, great. I work 8 till 5 and I cannot use the free offered bus pass before 9am. I want to continue to work and not claim benefits. I have asked my local MP kelly tollhurst to help and she is on the case. She has written to the assistant director for Medway council to see if they can unrestrict a bus pass for me. The disabled bus pass isn't for individual cases in my area you eithrr travel after 9am or don't claim for one. Feels like it's unfair for people with disabilities who would still like to work. Watch this space

jfdi

Sorry bout your epilepsy diagnosis, but surely if you’re used to driving to and from work and will now need to go by bus instead, you’re just exchanging one cost for another?
A free bus pass would obviously give you help, but is it more necessary than a paid for season ticket?