Accessible Transport Unit frequently asked questions
If you require more details to these questions, please contact the Accessible Transport Unit
I have mobility difficulties. Is there any help available?
Yes, you may be eligible for one of the following services:
- London Taxicard Scheme or the Richmond Voucher Scheme - help with door to door transport using a taxi or minicab.
- Super Shopper Bus Scheme - transport to take you shopping to a local supermarket.
- Blue Badge Scheme - access to disabled parking spaces.
- Disabled Freedom Pass – free travel on bus, train and underground.
Am I eligible for an Older Person’s Freedom Pass?
From April 2003, to be eligible for the Older Person’s Freedom Pass you must be over 60 years of age and be a permanent resident of the Borough.
Am I eligible for a Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass?
The eligibility criteria for a Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass are defined by the Transport Act 2000.
I am on incapacity benefit, because I cannot work. Am I entitled to a Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass?
Not automatically, the only allowance that gives automatic entitlement is Disability Living Allowance, Higher Rate for mobility, but you may be eligible if you have a substantial and long term walking difficulty.
How much does it cost the council to provide Freedom Passes?
Each pass costs approximately £380 as soon as it is issued, the total cost to Richmond Council is approximately £5,000,000 a year. The annual cost for the whole of London is approximately £200,000,000, Richmond’s share is based on how many passes the borough issues. This is why it is important to check, whenever the passes are issued, that everyone is eligible.
Why do I need to prove I am a permanent resident of the borough?
All of the services provided by the Accessible Transport Unit provide extensive travel opportunities at little or no direct cost to the user, and cost the borough and it’s council tax payers significant amounts of money. Services are only for people who live permanently in this borough, and are not for people who are visiting, or who have since moved to another area. This is why we ask everyone applying for the first time and for renewals to produce current official evidence of residency; full details of what is accepted is included with all application packs.
It is also important that each individual has something appropriate in their name, for example married couples must each have a document with their name and address on.
How do I get a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge Scheme is to allow anyone aged over 2 years old with permanent and severe walking difficulties the opportunity to park close to places they wish to visit, but if you are registered blind you are also eligible.
Eligibility for a Blue Badge (previously Orange Badge) is governed by Department of Transport criteria.
Can I use my Blue Badge to park in residents parking in the borough?
Yes, Blue Badge holders can park with no time restrictions during the enforced time period.
Can I use my Blue Badge in any car?
Yes, the badge is issued to you as an individual, not for a vehicle. As long as you are travelling in the car the badge can be displayed.
What do I do if I get a parking ticket and I have a current Blue Badge?
Contact the Parking Office telephone number on the ticket, and they will advise you what to do.
Are there any reliable minicab/taxi companies that can transport people with a disability?
The Council is unable to recommend any particular company, however the Accessible Transport Unit has a list of companies regularly used by the Council.