From 1st April 2008 the Concessionary Bus Pass scheme has changed. The new pass entitles holders to free off-peak local bus travel anywhere in England.
This is the only service that is guaranteed. Different local authorities may well offer additional services if their funding permits. However, as a general rule, local authorities will only provide additional services for their own residents. To check if any additional services are available in Cambridgeshire you should contact the district office that issued your pass. For those travelling further a field you should check with the local authorities that you intend use your pass in.

Using the new concession
Who is eligible?
How do I get a new concessionary bus pass?

Using the new concession

When you can use it

You can only use the concession for free travel during off peak hours: they are 9.30am until the last bus Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays. However, if you are blind or partially sighted you can use the concession to travel free at any time within Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

When it applies

The concession applies to local bus travel in England only. The definition of a local bus is 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. Check with the service operator or district office that issued your pass.

Important

When using the concession you will need to show the photo card to the driver.

Who is eligible?

In essence, if you're aged 60 or over or registered disabled and live in England you’re eligible. For further clarification refer to the list below.

• Men and women over the age of 60
• People who qualify for the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Allowance or the War Pensioners Mobility supplement
• Those registered deaf
• Those who are without speech and can provide medical evidence
• Those who are prevented from obtaining a driving licence on medical grounds
• Those registered blind or partially sighted
• Those who have a learning disability which includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning
• Those who have long term loss of the use of both arms

How do I get a new concessionary bus pass?

Obtaining your pass

If anyone has not yet applied for or received their new bus pass, the old style pass will remain valid for free travel within Cambridgeshire and Peterborough until the printed expiry date. This arrangement is only in place until the 30th September 2008.

Those who have a pass that is due to expire on the 31st March 2008 will need to have a new national pass to receive a concession. Only those with a new national bus pass will be able to receive a free travel outside of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.

The Government is currently in negotiations with long distance bus operators to see how the companies are included in the concessionary scheme.

Proving your eligibility

You will need to prove that you are eligible for the pass. This includes a proof of residence and evidence of eligibility. Proof of residence can be for example your Council Tax Bill. Evidence of eligibility can include a passport or proof of age, or where applicable evidence of disability (for instance your disability registration form or card).

If it’s your first national pass

You will need to supply a recent passport sized photograph of yourself. These can be obtained from photo booths that can be found at many of the large shops and supermarkets or through local photographers.