04 November 2019
A scheme that provides unlimited free bus travel to Jersey residents who have long-term disabilities is to continue.
The pilot was due to end in December 2019, but the Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Kevin Lewis, has signed a ministerial decision, extending the scheme indefinitely.
Deputy Lewis said: “Transport can make a huge difference to a person’s ability to work, to their standard of living, and to their wellbeing, so this scheme is hugely important for people with long-term disabilities. I am satisfied that the pilot has been a success and am delighted to confirm that it will continue.”
In March 2017, when the scheme was launched, a total of 152 passes were issued and passholders made 2,333 journeys on the bus network. By July 2019, there were 599 passes, and the number of journeys made was 8,581.
Existing passholders will need to have their passes renewed at the Customer Service Desk at Liberation Station, and the qualifications for a disabled concessionary bus pass remain the same. The passholder must:
- be a Jersey resident (for at least the last 5 years)
- have a disability that would prevent them from being able to drive
- be aged 5 years or over and not entitled to an older person’s pass (under 5-year-olds have free bus travel, as do holders of older persons' bus passes)
Funding will continue to come from the Car Parks Trading Fund, and an administrative fee of £15 will be charged for new applicants; anyone who purchased a card under the pilot scheme will not be charged.
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