PR1517/EL/MF
13 January 2012
Mid Sussex District Council is reminding residents, of pensionable age, that they are entitled to free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.
With the cost of living on the rise and fuel costs at a record high, there has never been a better time to take advantage of the free bus travel provided by the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.
The service is managed locally, by West Sussex County Council, and is administered on their behalf by Mid Sussex District Council. The pass entitles men and women who are eligible for the state pension, to free local bus journeys after 9.30am from Mondays to Fridays and any time at weekends and Bank Holidays. The scheme is also available to eligible disabled people and those who qualify are entitled to free bus travel at any time.
Mid Sussex residents can apply for a free bus pass by visiting the Mid Sussex District Council offices in Haywards Heath or any Town Council or Parish Council offices. Applicants will be required to provide proof of age, proof of residence, supply a recent colour passport-sized photograph and, if disabled, proof of disability.
As bus passes are automatically renewed every five years, existing pass holders are reminded that there is no need to contact the Council. The renewed pass is sent out before the expiry of the current pass and, therefore, it is important that bus pass holders keep the Council informed about any change of address so that bus pass renewals are sent to the correct household. If the replacement pass does not arrive on time, residents are advised to call Mid Sussex District Council on 01444 477304.
“With the cost of living increasing significantly in recent years, it is understandable that many pensioners on fixed incomes will be finding it difficult to make ends meet,” said Councillor Christopher Snowling Cabinet Member for Health and Community. “For those running a car, rising petrol costs exacerbate the situation and may restrict the journeys they can afford to make.
“I would like to remind all Mid Sussex residents that if you are entitled to claim a state pension you are also entitled to free local bus travel all over England. The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme is completely free and means you can remain independent and travel to visit family and friends without the financial burden of running a car.
“I urge any Mid Sussex pensioners who have not applied for a free bus pass to do so because travelling for free by bus could make a real difference to the amount of money you have available to spend each week.”
For more information about the free concessionary travel scheme in Mid Sussex, please contact Community Services and Culture, Mid Sussex District Council, Oaklands, Oaklands Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 1SS or email concessionarytravel@midsussex.gov.uk.
ENDS
