Support for disabled bus pass passengers

Ahead of upcoming changes to concessionary bus travel on 1 April, Surrey County Council has outlined how disabled bus pass holders are being supported.

The council has:

* Worked with bus firms to secure reduced fares for disabled bus pass users travelling on Arriva, Safeguard and Stagecoach services before 9.30am on weekdays and is continuing to negotiate with other operators
* Supported the Helping Hands card scheme – a card carried by disabled passengers which gives bus drivers information about what help they might need
* Said it will help voluntary and community groups who request assistance on season ticket options for their disabled staff who struggle using money to get in touch with bus companies.

Disabled passengers will still be able to travel for free in Surrey between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays and all day at weekends and on public holidays in line with the national scheme, while a decision was taken by the council to retain free passes for companions following a consultation.

Paul Millin, Surrey County Council’s strategic transport group manager, said: “We’re working with bus companies in Surrey to help pass holders with travel outside the free scheme. This includes getting fares reduced and offering to help voluntary and community organisations find out what season ticket options are available to support people who are among the 2% of pass holders travelling before 9.30am.”