Issue - meetings

This report presents the findings of a feasibility study into the introduction of a companion pass to allow bus pass holders with a severe disability to be accompanied on the bus by a carer/companion free of charge.

Cabinet Portfolio Holder – Councillor Jan Matecki

This report, presented by Councillor Jan Matecki, followed a report to Cabinet in April 2023 when it was agreed to conduct a feasibility study into the introduction of a companion pass for concessionary travel users.  Research had been undertaken and it was proposed to introduce a pass funded from the underspend on the concessionary travel grant due to still seeing reduced patronage on public transport since the Covid-19 Pandemic.  Councillor Matecki noted the comments of Mr Waller which had been shared earlier in the meeting and explained that the process of introducing the passes would take time and, whilst he would have liked to see the passes introduced sooner, he also did not want to set an unachievable timeframe to conduct the background work required to introduce the pass.

Councillor Isobel Seccombe noted that this was an important issue for the independence of disabled residents, but agreed that the passes should be introduced on an achievable timescale.

Councillor Andy Crump also recognised the importance of supporting independence for disabled residents and welcomed the introduction of the scheme.

Councillor Matecki noted that anyone with an age-related pass who also met the eligibility criteria would also qualify for a companion pass.

Resolved:

That Cabinet:

1.         Approves the development of a companion enhancement to the existing concessionary travel pass for a fixed term, ending on 31 March 2025; and

2.         Approves the eligibility criteria set out in Appendix 2 to the report.