Around 240,000 disabled people and older Londoners will soon be able to take advantage of an extension to the UK’s most comprehensive free travel service thanks to the Association of London Government (ALG) and London’s boroughs.
From April 1st around 115,000 disabled Freedom Pass holders will be able to enjoy the full benefits of the £170million scheme, paid for by London’s councils, while 125,000 men aged between 60 and 64 will also be able to take advantage of the Pass for the first time.
The Freedom Pass enhances the quality of life for London’s blind, disabled people and older people by giving them the opportunity to travel round London as independently as possible. Currently around one million people benefit from the scheme.
From next month the Pass will give disabled people and blind Londoners 24-hour free access to London’s tube, bus and tram services, and on national rail in London after 9.30am. Older Londoners will be entitled to free travel on all London’s tube, bus and tram services after 9am, and on national rail services in London after 9.30am.
This follows a review of the scheme to ensure the Freedom Pass continues to provide the best and fairest possible benefits from the boroughs’ funding and is brought into line with equality legislation.
Chair of the ALG’s Transport and Environment Committee Cllr Phil Portwood said: “This is the most extensive scheme of its kind in the UK, and I am delighted that from next month we are able to make it even better.
“It’s important that every member of the community is able to travel around the capital and lead as independent and active lives as possible. This is what the Freedom Pass provides its holders and now even more will be able to enjoy its benefits.”
Anyone who wants to check their eligibility for the scheme or to apply for a Freedom Pass should contact their local authority or visit http://www.freedompass.org
The Association of London Government is committed to fighting for more resources for London and getting the best possible deal for London’s 33 councils. Part think-tank, part lobbying organisation and part service provider, the ALG formulates policies, organises campaigns and runs a range of services all designed to make life better for Londoners
The Freedom Pass has been operating since 1984.
Currently disabled people holding a Freedom Pass can travel free on all tube, bus and tram services after 9am, and on national rail services in London after 9.30am.
For press enquires please contact:
Stewart Henderson on 020 7934 9620 or stewart.henderson@alg.gov.uk
