National Concessionary Travel Scheme

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What if I sometimes require a companion when I travel. Can they travel for free throughout England too?
A. If you apply for a Worcestershire Disabled bus pass and your disability entitles you to have a companion travel with you, they can travel at anytime on all local bus journeys starting in Worcestershire. Please be aware that other authorities probably do not offer this concession, however your local District Council may offer additional enhancements, please contact them for further details.

Q. What is the definition of a ‘local’ bus?
A. Registered local bus services are those buses which are open to the public, are registered with the Traffic Commissioner and therefore have a timetable. Buses registered as school services only and (most) National Express services are not registered local bus services. If you are unsure, pass holders can check with the service operator or the Worcestershire Hub.

Q. Will I be able to enjoy free travel everywhere within the UK?
A. No, the concession will only apply within England.

Q. Is it only applicable to buses?
A. The new concession applies just to bus travel but some authorities offer additional services. For Worcestershire residents this includes Community Transport schemes. The extent of Community Transport concessions varies between each authority, please check with your local authority for details. As a general rule, local authorities will only provide additional services for their own residents. Your local District Council may offer additional enhancements, please contact them for further details.

Q. I don’t live in London, but I visit relatives there occasionally. Will I be able to enjoy the same benefits as a Freedom Pass holder if I travel there?
A. No. Because those benefits are paid for by the London authorities, only London Freedom Pass holders will be able to enjoy additional local travel on the tube, trains and trams. You will, however, be able to enjoy the statutory national concession of free off-peak bus travel when visiting the capital.

Q. Is Park & Ride included?
A. Park & Ride schemes vary across the country. You may still need to pay for your parking but your bus journey will be free.

Q. Is there a limit to the number of times that a pass can be used?
A. No, there is no limit.

Q. Will my pass be issued immediately?
A. No. Your new bus pass will need to be processed and will be delivered to you by post normally within two weeks of application.

Q. I still have a valid pass can I use this instead?
A. Local passes will continue to be valid until 30th September 2008 for local travel only. You must have a new bus pass for travel in England.

Q. Do I have to pay for my pass?
A. No. You do not have to pay for your pass when you first apply for it. However, if you lose your pass there may be a replacement charge.

Q. What if I don't apply for my pass?
A. If you don't apply for a pass you will not be able to travel for free and you will be required to pay the full fare for your journey.

Q. What if I lose my pass?
A. If you lose your pass you should report this immediately to your local District Council. There will be a replacement charge unless in exceptional circumstances.

Q. Can I apply for my pass before my 60th birthday?
A. Yes, however you will not receive your new bus pass until you become eligible.

Q. What other options do I have?
A. Some districts have alternative options that you can choose for concessionary travel. Please note however, that this will mean you give up your right to a bus pass. These options are available from your local District Council and include schemes like Travel Tokens.