Looking for transport services?

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Looking for transport services?

Local authorities help with public transport costs for older adults, and more private services are now catering to the needs of an ageing population. Below, you'll find links to local services and a list of transport concessions to make getting around easier.

Community Transport Schemes

Community transport services are often run by volunteers or local groups and offer several options, such as:

  • Transport to and from hospitals, doctor’s offices, dentists, opticians, chiropodists, and podiatrists
  • Minibus rides with other members of the community
  • 'Dial-a-Ride' for door-to-door service when regular buses aren't an option
  • Social car schemes run by volunteers using their own vehicles
  • 'Shopmobility'—a service that loans wheelchairs or scooters for people with mobility issues, typically found in large shopping centres
  • Some schemes are free, some are funded, and others may require registration.

Find Local Services

Local transport services are usually listed on the websites of local authorities (or HCT websites in Northern Ireland), but finding the information can sometimes be tricky. If you're having trouble, here are alternative ways to locate providers:

GOV.UK Postcode Search Tool

Enter your postcode to be directed to your local authority’s transport services page.  

Postcode Search ->

Elderly Accommodation Counsel

This organisation offers a list of transport services by towns and counties.  

See the list →

Senior Railcard

A Senior Railcard offers a one-third discount on most standard and first-class rail fares across Great Britain. It's available to anyone aged 60 or over, costing £30 for one year or £70 for three years. You can buy a card at mainline railway stations or on the Senior Railcard website →

Older Person’s Bus Pass (England)

This pass offers free off-peak local bus travel in England (but not in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland). Off-peak hours are weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and anytime on weekends and holidays. Companion passes are also available for people unable to travel alone, allowing a family member or friend to accompany them for free. Check the state pension age here to see if you qualify.  

Apply for a bus pass in England →

Transport in Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland

Wales: Free bus travel is available 24/7 for residents aged 60 and over.

Northern Ireland: With a 60+ SmartPass, you can travel free on all Translink buses and trains, and with a Senior SmartPass (for those 65+), you can travel free across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.  

Application forms can be collected from any manned Translink bus or rail station or phone 028 9066 6630. Alternatively email smartpass@translink.co.uk and ask for a form to be sent by post.  

Scotland: The National Entitlement Card allows anyone over 60 to travel for free on local and long-distance buses, with no peak-time restrictions.  

Contact the local authority or Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) for details of the application process in the local area.

The Blue Badge

A blue badge allows drivers to park in specially marked parking spaces. The system is intended to assist drivers in parking closer to their destination. A blue badge should be sent automatically under certain conditions. Many people are unaware when they have become eligible. A blue badge can be extremely useful, especially when walking large distances is problematic. Family members can also use the badge in their car when dropping off or picking up. Blue badges are available for up to £10 in England, £20 in Scotland, and free in Wales. Badges are usually valid for three years. The criteria can be found here. If you live in England follow this link to get parking details from the local council. You can apply through the council or through the online application form provided below. 

Apply for a Blue Badge in England & Wales →

Apply for a Blue Badge in Scotland →

Apply for a Blue Badge in Northern Ireland →

Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme

If you're referred to a hospital or other NHS provider for specialised care, you may be eligible for a reimbursement of travel costs under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme. Drivers who accompany you can also claim mileage and parking fees.  

Learn more →

London-Specific Transport Concessions

Freedom Pass: For those aged 60 or over, this pass provides free travel across almost all public transport in London, including buses, the Tube, and National Rail.  

Apply for a Freedom Pass →

London Taxicard: A subsidised taxi service for residents with serious mobility or visual impairments. 

Learn more about the Taxicard scheme →

Dial-a-Ride: A door-to-door service for people unable to use public transport due to disabilities.  It can be used for a variety of journeys, including shopping, visiting friends, attending appointments, and going out at night. It cannot, however, be used to attend hospital appointments or for daycare services supplied by local authorities. You must be a member of the Dial-a-ride plan to use it, although you will be automatically enrolled if you are over the age of 85 or get certain benefits

Learn more →

Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS)

DATS is a members-only transport scheme that operates in and around large towns across Northern Ireland.

Learn more →

Private Transport Services

Driving Miss Daisy is a private car service specifically for the elderly. Drivers are trained in first aid and emergency response, with special needs catered to, including wheelchair access. They offer companionship and transport for appointments, hospital visits, or social outings.  

Learn more →