There are several schemes that give transport discounts for carers and people with disabilities, as well as schemes that reduce the cost of travel if you are using more than one form of public transport.
We have a variety of listings for adult travel, from taxis and private ambulances to community transport schemes.
Trains
Accessibility & Wheelchairs on Trains
For information about traveling on trains with a wheelchair or mobility scooter, check with the train operator on the route. For journeys in Cornwall, please see Great Western Railway's 'Assisted travel' page and Cross Country's 'Travel assistance' page.
Discount Travel (disability or age related)
There are a number of railcards available that you may be eligible for. These include:
- 16-25 Railcard
- Family and Friends Railcard
- Two Together Railcard
- Network Railcard
- Senior Railcard
- Disabled Persons Railcard
- 26-30 Railcard
- Devon and Cornwall Railcard
If you’re eligible you can get up to a third off rail tickets by applying for a disabled person’s railcard. It also entitles a friend or carer to 1/3 off the travelling fare.
You must provide proof that you qualify for the Disabled Persons Railcard. You might qualify if you have a visual or a hearing impairment, have epilepsy or are in receipt of a disability related benefit.
Other Discounts
You may also benefit from using PlusBus, Rail-Bus Add ons or the Ride Cornwall Tickets.
Your rights
Your right to travel by train is protected by the train company’s Disabled People’s Protection Policy (DPPP). Each train company must produce a DPPP and you can request a copy from the company.
Cars
The Motability Scheme
The Motability Scheme can help you with leasing a car, powered wheelchair or scooter.
Tax Exemption
You may also be exempt from Vehicle Tax. You still need to apply for vehicle tax even if you don’t need to pay vehicle tax.
Blue Badge Scheme
Your disability may mean you are eligible for a Blue Badge, so whether you are the driver or the passenger, you can park closer to the shops and services you need to access. The Blue Badge is for on-street parking only with different rules for off-street parking. Find out more on the Cornwall Council website.
Buses and coaches
You can get a concessionary bus pass for free travel if you are of eligible age or have a permanent disability. The card is free but there is a cost to replace it. You can check if you are eligible or apply.
Passes from councils in England can be used for free:
- at any time on a Saturday, Sunday or Bank Holiday
- from 9:30am to 11pm on a weekday
- (a maximum charge of £2 applies to journeys outside of these hours in Cornwall)
You can find out more about disabled bus passes on the Council website, or by visiting your local library or One Stop Shop.
The law says bus and coach drivers must give reasonable assistance to people with a disability, e.g. helping them get on and off the bus or coach. This doesn’t mean physically lifting passengers or heavy mobility equipment.
If you need help to get on and off a coach, you should ask for this when you book your ticket.
For more information about using the bus in Cornwall, visit the Cornwall Council website.
Community Transport
Community Transport services may be available in your area providing a range of services.
- Community Bus Schemes – Minibuses either providing Dial a Ride/Ring and Ride services where you pre-book seats or local bus services.
- Community Car Schemes – Volunteers use their own cars to provide door to door transport. Some car schemes have accessible vehicles.
- Shopmobility – Wheelchairs and Scooters are available to hire in some town centres for residents and visitors.
- Electric Bike/Moped Hire – For Employment purposes individuals can hire a moped or electric bike to enable them to access employment.