Eligible disabled Gold Card holders can now apply for a companion pass, allowing another person to travel with them for free for journeys starting within Derbyshire.
Derbyshire County Council’s Gold Card currently allows the card holder to travel free on local buses throughout England from 9.30am up to 11pm weekdays, and at any time during weekends and on bank holidays.
With a Gold Card companion pass another person can also travel for free with the disabled person at those times.
Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Charlotte Cupit, said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer a companion pass to those that need some extra help to travel.
“It’s really important that transport is accessible to as many people as possible and offering a free travel card that allows a companion or carer to travel with those that need it is a positive step towards this.
Derbyshire County Council’s Leader, Councillor Barry Lewis, said: “There is one person that we need to thank for bringing this to our attention, and that is Luke Layton, who for many years lobbied the council for this pass.
“It’s testament to his hard work that we now have this pass on offer for disabled people throughout the county.”
To qualify for a Gold Card companion pass, Gold Card holders need to provide the following information:
- Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) stating that the Gold Card holder is blind,
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) award letter confirming that you receive 12 points for the 'moving around' activity,
- letter from a medical professional confirming the details and severity of your walking or learning disability,
- an education health and care plan (EHCP) - must confirm type and severity of learning or walking disability.
Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “Local people deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport system. I'm delighted to have worked alongside the local council and local MPs to give Derbyshire County Council over £47 million to boost its bus services.
“Allowing a disabled passenger and Gold Card holder to travel with another person for free will help passengers with a disability make the most of local bus services, get around easily and travel with greater peace of mind.”
For further details on the Gold Card companion pass, including a full list of criteria, please visit derbyshire.gov.uk/gold.
Residents who already have a Gold Card and want to add a companion pass have to contact their borough or district council. Residents without a Gold Card and wish to apply for a Gold Card companion pass need to apply through the council website at derbyshire.gov.uk/gold.
The companion pass does not include travel in the city of Derby or in other council areas. Gold Card holders can also travel free-of-charge from 9.30am Monday to Friday or anytime at weekends on Derbyshire Connect Dial-a-Bus 'shopping' buses and Derbyshire on Demand service.