Travel passes

By Judith Parker

Concessionary travel passes for the less-abled can make getting around the country a lot more affordable, as Judith Parker has found out.

Over the years I have become aware of several travel concessions I can use to make travelling a lot easier -- and less expensive.

Firstly I applied for a Bus Pass -- yes, the same as the Old Aged Pensioners get! But officially it is for OAPs and the Disabled. Although I was dubious because I can walk a short distance, I obtained a form from the council office, filled in my part of the form and asked my GP to fill in the part relating to her, which she willingly did. Within three weeks I received a Bus Pass. This pass entitles me to half-price fares and is valid after 9am Monday to Friday and all day at the weekend and Bank Holidays, providing I either start or finish my journey in my home county of Buckinghamshire.

I also have a Disabled Persons Railcard, which costs £14 and entitles a companion and myself to one third off any rail ticket within Britain (including

First Class tickets!). I was alerted to this concession when I applied for the Mobility part of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA). You can find details about the card, including eligibility and an application form, at www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk.Train companies are happy to provide help to the less-abled if you give them at least 24 hours notice of your journey. They can usually arrange for a member of staff to meet you at your departure station, accompany you (and carry any luggage) to your train and see you safely on board. Similar arrangements can be made at your destination, and at other stations if you need to change trains.

Many toilets for disabled people at stations are kept locked due to vandalism, so I applied for a NKS Key (National Key Systems). Now I don't have to hunt for an assistant when I want to go to the loo, which is particularly useful if, like me, you are prescribed diuretics. These keys, also known as RADAR keys, can be obtained from your local council or from RADAR, 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF, tel: 020 7250 4119.

A booklet I have found helpful is called Rail Travel for Disabled Passengers, and can be obtained at most staffed stations, Citizens Advice Bureaux and some libraries.

I have travelled to many places around Britain, including GUCH Weekends (which are always worth it!), and of course to many hospital appointments! These bus and train concessions have saved me a great deal of money over the years, and they could do the same for you. Happy travelling!

Printed in GUCH News - Autumn 2005