Disabled and Over-66s Still Entitled to Bus Passes

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Thousands of people across England may still be eligible for a free bus pass, even after recent changes to disability benefit assessments under the Government’s welfare reforms.

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme offers free bus travel to residents aged 66 and above, as well as to individuals with qualifying disabilities. Concerns had been raised that recent amendments to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility could impact access to this travel benefit.

However, despite changes introduced by the welfare reform bill earlier this year, eligibility for a free bus pass remains in place for many. Those who receive the enhanced mobility component of PIP or have been awarded at least eight points for either “moving around” or “communicating verbally” continue to qualify, even if they no longer receive payments. The same applies to recipients of the higher mobility rate under Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or individuals with a Blue Badge.

Regional variations mean that some local councils may also offer free bus passes to people with certain conditions, even if their benefit status changes. According to CambridgeshireLive, the new rules do not override all local schemes, which often include broader qualifying criteria.

Disability campaigners and some MPs have warned that those with severe, long-term conditions could still face reduced benefits under the reforms introduced by Liz Kendall in March. Several concessions were added to the bill in June following pressure from Conservative backbenchers.

Beyond disability-related eligibility, those aged 66 or over, the current state pension age in England, can still apply for a free bus pass. Additional categories include individuals under pension age with registered disabilities, carers travelling with someone who requires support, and those qualifying under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement.

Campaigners are continuing to press the Government to lower the qualifying age for free travel to 60, to match the schemes already in place in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Currently, the eligible conditions for disabled travel passes in England include:

• Permanent and serious walking impairments
  
• Total blindness or partial sight (as assessed by an ophthalmologist)
  
• Learning disabilities
  
• Severe hearing loss
  
• Loss of both arms
  
• Disqualification from driving on medical grounds
  

Proof of eligibility typically requires assessment documentation, benefit letters, or valid identification such as a Blue Badge.

A free bus pass can save individuals an estimated £500 per year in travel expenses and offers access to bus networks across England, though London travel is often managed separately.