If you are of state pensionable age, or eligible because you are disabled and live in England, your bus pass will allow you to enjoy off-peak travel on local buses in England.
From April 2011 Suffolk County Council took over management of the bus pass scheme.
If you already hold a bus pass you should have received a letter from Suffolk County Council about how the changes will affect you.
Suffolk County Council issues bus passes and free travel is only be available on off peak journeys – those between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays and all day weekends and bank holidays, however people who live in a village without a bus between 9.30am and 11.59am can travel on an earlier bus.
For more information about the new scheme call Suffolk County Council on 0845 600 0659.
Am I eligible for a national bus pass?
To be eligible for a national bus pass, you must permanently live in Suffolk and be of state pensionable age or have a qualifying disability.
If you have a disability, you qualify for a national bus pass if you:
- are blind or partially sighted;
- are profoundly or severely deaf;
- are without speech;
- have impaired walking;
- are without arms or have long-term loss of the use of both arms;
- have a learning disability;
- are not permitted to drive or likely to be refused a driving licence on medical grounds.
When exactly is off-peak travel?
Off peak hours are 9.30am until 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays.
What is the definition of a ‘local’ bus?
The definition of a ‘local’ bus will be self-evident in most cases, but in a few instances could include some longer distance buses and coach services where part of their route is registered as a local bus service. If in doubt, pass holders can check with the service operator if their pass will entitle them to free travel for the route.
Will I be able to enjoy free travel everywhere within the UK?
No, the bus can only be used within England.
Is it only applicable to buses?
The bus pass is only for local bus services.
If I visit an area that offers additional services, will I be entitled to them?
Probably not, as a general rule, local councils will only provide additional services for their own residents. Some authorities, however, may provide them, check with the relevant councils in the area to which you intend to travel.
I don’t live in London, but I visit relatives there occasionally. Will I be able to enjoy the same benefits as a Freedom Pass holder if I travel there?
No, because those benefits are paid for by the London authorities, only London Freedom Pass holders will be able to enjoy additional local travel on the tube, trains and trams. You will, however, be able to enjoy the statutory national concession of free off-peak bus travel when visiting the capital.
What will my pass look like?
The pass will be printed on white plastic and include your photograph. Passes for those of state pensionable age have a blue strip down the right-hand side and those for eligible disabled people will have an orange strip.
How do I get a National Bus Pass?
Please contact the information line on 0845 600 0659 or pick up an application form to be completed and submitted by post from the following locations:
- West Suffolk House, Western Way, Bury St Edmunds
- Bus and Coach Station, St Andrews Street North, Bury St Edmunds
- Council Offices, Lower Downs Slade, Haverhill
- Public Libraries
What if I lose my pass or it is damaged?
Lost or spoilt bus passes are subject to a replacement fee of £10.
Should you lose your pass or if it has been stolen you should notify the Free Travel Bus Pass Information Line on 0845 600 0659 as soon as possible.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Free Travel Bus Pass Information Line if you have any queries regarding your bus pass, or need help with your application.
Useful Links
Below you can find links to some websites which offer more information on concessionary travel:
www.Direct.gov.uk/buspass
Further information on the Free Travel Bus Pass across England
www.suffolkonboard.com
Information on public transport within Suffolk including downloadable timetables and information on concessionary travel.
www.concessionarytravel.com
If you are interested in keeping up to date with news about concessionary travel why not sign up for a free Monthly e-Newsletter on the Concessionary Travel Club website.
