clarify use of bus passes and allow users to travel on buses more

I am confused over use of my bus pass: I have no car. I have not used the bus since lockdown, but would really benefit from using it to reach bigger shop. I have to shop at a convenience store currently, or walk a distance that is further than is comfy with arthritis. I am uncertain if I am allowed to use my pass for this. Yet, in this rural area, buses are passing me regularly totally empty. I would like to have regular session open to bus pass users and to be allowed to go to a nearby town to reach a bigger shop. For people in rural areas and also on low budgets, this is important

Why the contribution is important

Many people are dependent on buses due to age, disability or lack of car and being in a more rural area. The Scottish government recognised this by retaining passes. Allowing pass users to access buses at less busy times would be a huge help. Masks could be worn or plastic shields fitter on each chair back, and one person allowed per seat

by black54 on May 10, 2020 at 07:05PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 4.4
Based on: 7 votes

Comments

  • Posted by MikeJohnston May 10, 2020 at 20:47

    Sympathise, my wife had terrible arthritis.

    I think your pass is perfectly valid. Hopefully you can ask the driver to prevent folk invading your space.

  • Posted by LeeLee33 May 10, 2020 at 21:44

    You can definitely travel by bus or train when essential, e.g. to go to a supermarket, or to reach your nearest park or open public space to exercise in. I have used buses which have certain seats taped off to encourage social distancing.
    Carrying heavy bags home from the shops mean many of us have to use public transport. So go ahead and use your pass.

  • Posted by StayAtHomeSaveLives May 11, 2020 at 06:06

    Scotgov should be supporting taxi drivers & vulnerable people simultaneously by hiring currently out-of-work taxi drivers en masse to take shielded people/nurses/elderly to shops or work...
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