DWP Free Bus Pass Who are over 66 Years: Check New Eligibility Conditions Seniors can Save around £500 per Year

If you’re aged 66 or over, or you live with a disability, you might be eligible for free or discounted travel through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) supported travel schemes. But recent changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) rules are creating confusion, especially for people who rely on these payments to access other support like free bus passes. This guide explains who can still qualify, what the scheme includes, and what to do if your PIP has been affected.

What Is the Disabled Concessionary Travel Scheme?

The Disabled Concessionary Travel Scheme is a government-backed initiative that allows eligible disabled people to travel for free or at a reduced cost on public transport in England. It’s a lifeline for many, especially those living on limited incomes or who find travel particularly challenging due to physical or mental health conditions.

Key Benefits of the Scheme:

• Free bus travel across England (except London)
• Reduced fares on local transport like:
  • 60p on the Shields Ferry
  • 50p on Northern Rail between Newcastle and Metrocentre/Blaydon
• Available after 9:30am on weekdays, and all day on weekends and public holidays

This means if you travel often, whether for appointments, shopping, or social visits, you could save up to £500 per year just on transport costs alone. That’s a big help for anyone on a tight budget.

Who Can Apply for the Free or Discounted Travel Pass?

You can apply for the travel pass if you fall into one of these categories:

Age-Based Eligibility:

• You are 66 years old or older, which is the current state pension age in the UK.

Disability-Based Eligibility:

• You have a permanent disability that makes travel difficult
• You have a visual, hearing, speech, or learning disability
• You are a carer or companion who supports someone unable to travel alone
• You are eligible under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

What Conditions Qualify You as Disabled?

To be considered disabled for this travel scheme, at least one of the following must apply:

• You have a serious and long-term walking difficulty, such as needing mobility aids
• You are blind or partially sighted, with a formal diagnosis
• You are profoundly or severely deaf, whether or not you use hearing aids
• You have a learning disability that affects your ability to understand or communicate
• You have no use of both arms, which impacts driving or using public transport
• You have been advised not to drive for medical reasons, such as epilepsy or severe mental health issues
• You are chronically ill or disabled, as confirmed by a health or social care professional

In addition, you must usually provide proof through benefits like PIP, especially if your PIP award includes the mobility component.

How PIP Points Affect Eligibility for the Travel Pass

When it comes to applying under disability grounds, PIP plays a crucial role. To qualify based on your PIP assessment, you need to:

• Have received the enhanced rate of the mobility component
• Or have scored 8 or more points in either:
  • “Moving around” section
  • “Communicating verbally” section

So, if your PIP assessment shows you struggle significantly with getting around or speaking with others, you can often still get a travel pass.

What If You Recently Lost Your PIP?

This is where things get tricky. With the UK government making changes to how PIP is awarded, some people are losing their benefits—even if their mobility issues remain the same. The good news is: you may still qualify for free or discounted travel.

If your PIP claim has ended, but your previous assessment clearly noted mobility issues, you might still be eligible. Local councils or transport authorities often take previous assessments into account. It’s worth checking with your local authority to see if your previous PIP documents can still be used.

Other Ways to Prove You Qualify for a Travel Pass

Even without PIP, you can still apply and potentially qualify using other documents and evidence:

• Blue Badge (parking permit for disabled individuals)
• War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement
• EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan) if you’re under 25
• Official letters proving you are registered blind, partially sighted, or deaf

Each council might have slightly different evidence requirements, so it’s a good idea to contact them before applying.

Why This Matters: Real Life Example

Let’s say Susan is 67 and uses a walker to get around. She used to receive PIP but lost it after a reassessment. Despite this, her mobility hasn’t improved. Because her previous PIP assessment shows difficulty walking and she has a Blue Badge, her local authority may still approve her free bus pass.

Similarly, John is 45, has autism, and used to get the Enhanced PIP mobility rate. He no longer receives it but has an EHCP. With the right documents, he may still be able to get a discounted travel card.

What You Should Do Next

If you think you’re eligible for a free or discounted travel card:

1. Gather all your documents
   • PIP letters, EHCP, Blue Badge, or medical certificates
2. Contact your local council or transport authority
   • Every region might have slightly different rules, so get advice from your local office
3. Submit an application
   • This can often be done online or in person
4. Keep an eye out for renewals
   • Travel passes may need to be renewed every few years

Conclusion

In times of rising costs, every bit of financial help matters. For people with disabilities or those over 66, the DWP-supported concessionary travel card can make everyday life more affordable. Despite the changes to PIP, there are still ways to stay eligible. Don’t assume you no longer qualify just because your benefits changed.

Make the effort to apply, provide the right documents, and talk to someone if you’re unsure. It could mean hundreds of pounds saved each year—and much easier access to the places you need to go.

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