QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Am I eligible for the New Scheme?

In theory, there are no changes to the rules on eligibility – you qualify if you are over 60 or meet the existing criteria as a disabled person.  In practice, some authorities had relaxed the regulations regarding eligible disabilities and some of these have had to be tightened to fit with the national scheme.  If you are disabled, you will need to check with your issuing authority to see if you remain eligible.

How do I get my new pass?

This depends on arrangements made by your local council.  Existing concessionaires who did not receive their new pass by 1 April should have received it by the end of May 2008.  If you are approaching sixty or have moved to a different local authority area, please contact your local council.

The new pass is to a standard national design which includes the name of the local scheme.  So any bus driver will know that it is a “free pass” within the core-hours, but also whether it carries any additional benefits in that area.

How do I use my new pass locally?

On your local bus, show it to the driver, or, if appropriate, touch it on the card reader.  You may be issued with a zero value ticket, but this is not a requirement of the scheme, simply for the benefit of the bus company’s accountants.

How do I use my new pass on in other parts of England?

In most of England just as you would at home.  Some places, especially in the North-West, already have buses with Smartcard readers, so you might need to check with the driver if you need to use the reader.

Passes are not normally valid outside your home area on trams or trains, but can be used on Sheffield’s Supertram.

My local pass allows me to travel all day; will I be able to use it everywhere all day?

No. Away from your local scheme area, the core hours will apply.

How do I use my new pass in London?

Eligible London residents will continue to travel free on bus, tram and tube, but the national scheme only applies to buses.  East Midlanders are able to use their new passes on London buses only, within “core hours” –BUT you  still have to pay to use the tube.

Can I travel free in other parts of the UK?

No.  If you go to Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland your pass does not apply and you will have to pay.

Can I travel all the way to places like Blackpool for nothing?

Yes if you like very long bus journeys, BUT only using local services, so you would have to keep changing. 

There is a bit of a grey area with some long-distance bus routes, e.g. Trans Peak, Stagecoach X5, Yorkshire Coastliner.  We know that free travel is allowed on Trans Peak and would welcome feedback regarding similar routes.