Disability Technology & News

Free Public Transit in UK

As part of the UK policy to encourage employment and inclusion of PWDs, the government will engage in a PPP with transit agencies to offer free rides to PWD and the seniors. The only caveat is that the free rides is valid during non-peak hours. The new fare policy seems at odds with the over arching social policy of increase employment and social activities, as many activities occurs during business hours. Getting to/from work would require commuting during peak times. While this is a good policy, it could be better if it was free all the time to avoid this issue all together.

Nationwide Free Bus Scheme For Over 60’s And Disabled People
March 22, 2006
Department for Transport (National)

People over 60 and disabled people will soon be able to travel for free on any local bus across England thanks to additional funding announced by the Chancellor Gordon Brown today.

The scheme will bring benefits to 11 million older and disabled people and is part of the Government’s work to support social inclusion and encourage greater bus use.

Today’s funding is an extension to the scheme starting on April 1 2006 - which allows free off peak local travel to people over 60 and disabled people in their local area.

Alistair Darling, Transport Secretary said: “From April 2008, over 11 million older and disabled people in England will now be able to take advantage of free off-peak bus travel in every area of the country.

“Whether using the bus locally, or when visiting other parts of the country, today’s announcement means older and disabled people can travel for free. More freedom and more choice for millions of people.”

Notes to editors
1. The Government will be supporting this with funding of up to £250m.
2. The scheme applies to off peak (From 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day weekends and bank holidays) in England.
3. The Government will be consulting local government and the bus industry on the detailed arrangements for implementation later this year.

Public Enquiries: 020 7944 8300
Department for Transport Website: http://www.dft.gov.uk

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