Complete List of People Eligible for Free Bus Pass Under Updated DWP Rules

People with disabilities in England may still be entitled to a free bus pass, even amid recent adjustments to disability benefit eligibility rules.

Free Bus Travel Still Accessible Despite Changes in Disability Benefits

Under new DWP rules, individuals who lose their disability benefit claims may still retain access to free travel schemes. This includes the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, available through local councils.

Recent updates to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility had sparked concerns that this could affect access to free bus passes.

However, due to the specific wording in the government’s Green Paper proposals, even if your PIP benefits are reduced or stopped, you may still qualify for a concessionary travel pass.

Background on Benefit Overhaul and Travel Scheme Concerns

The reforms were introduced in March by Liz Kendall, who announced changes aimed at saving £5 billion by the end of the decade.

These savings are expected to come from adjusting the PIP scoring system and making those with “lower needs” ineligible for the daily living component of PIP.

Naturally, this raised alarms regarding access to other related benefits, such as the Blue Badge scheme and concessionary travel cards, which offer free bus journeys to disabled individuals.

Maintaining Eligibility for a Free Bus Pass

Currently, the ability to access free bus travel across England has traditionally been tied to receiving PIP. Importantly, even if you no longer receive PIP payments, having previously qualified for the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP can still grant you eligibility for a free pass.

In addition to PIP recipients, individuals may also qualify for a free travel pass if they are:

Over State Pension age
A carer or companion to someone needing travel assistance
Eligible under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

Who Can Apply for a Free or Discounted Travel Pass?

Applying for a free or reduced-cost travel card is a great way for disabled individuals or older adults to save money, even if they lose eligibility for other benefits. You can apply if you fall into one of these categories:

General Eligibility

An older person aged 66 or above (current State Pension age)
An individual with a learning, speech, visual, or physical disability under State Pension age
A carer companion to someone who cannot travel without assistance
Someone qualifying under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

Specific Eligibility for Disabled Persons:

Diagnosed with a chronic illness or disability that permanently and severely impairs mobility
Permanently blind and unable to perform tasks requiring sight
Assessed as having learning disabilities
Registered as profoundly deaf, with or without speech
Without the use of both arms (through limb absence or other causes)
Unable to drive due to a medically revoked or refused driving license
Registered as partially sighted (confirmed by a Consultant Ophthalmologist)

Documentation and Supporting Evidence Required

To apply, you must have undergone a PIP assessment and provide proof of having received the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP, or scored at least 8 points under “moving around” or “communicating verbally.”

Alternatively, if you are on the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA), this can also serve as supporting evidence.

Benefits of the Disabled Concessionary Travel Card

Holding a disabled concessionary travel card offers numerous advantages. It provides free bus travel throughout England (excluding London) and can save users an estimated £500 annually on travel expenses.

Despite the government’s disability benefit reforms, many disabled individuals can still access a free bus pass under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.

With various qualifying conditions and multiple ways to prove eligibility, this vital service ensures that those with disabilities continue to enjoy free travel and greater mobility across the country.

FAQs

Can I still qualify for a free bus pass if my PIP has been stopped?

Yes. Even if your PIP payments stop, you may remain eligible if you had previously received the enhanced rate mobility component or meet other criteria under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.

What documents do I need to provide when applying for a disabled bus pass?

You should provide evidence such as a PIP award letter, DLA higher rate mobility component, a disabled parking badge, or other supporting documents like a War Pensioner’s mobility supplement or an Education, Health, and Care Plan.

Is free travel with this pass available across all of England?

Yes. The pass allows for free bus travel across England (excluding London). It can help users save around £500 per year in travel expenses.