In the UK, there are ways to make train tickets more affordable for individuals with certain health conditions. Lancs Live highlights how individuals with disabilities or progressive medical conditions can access discounts on train tickets, providing a valuable opportunity for savings.
With the Disabled Persons Railcard, eligible passengers can enjoy a significant reduction in fare prices. This railcard, available to those who meet specific criteria, is a convenient way to make travel more accessible.
What is the Disabled Persons Railcard?
The Disabled Persons Railcard provides a discount of up to one-third off most train fares, including advance tickets. It is available to individuals with a disability or a progressive medical condition. The railcard is also valid for one adult companion, ensuring that travel is more affordable for those requiring assistance.
You may be eligible for the railcard if you meet any of the following conditions:
- You receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
- You have a visual impairment or hearing impairment.
- You suffer from epilepsy or a mobility issue.
- You are a recipient of Attendance Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance, or Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
- You have a War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement or a War or Service Disablement Pension for 80% or more disability.
- You are part of the Motability Scheme.
Cost of the Railcard
The Disabled Persons Railcard costs £20 for one year or £54 for three years. On average, individuals save £113 per year or around £4.40 per journey when using the railcard. This makes the railcard a cost-effective option for frequent travelers with disabilities.
To apply, you will need to provide proof of eligibility. This can include :
- Award letters for benefits such as PIP, DLA, or ADP.
- Medical certificates such as a Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI) or an Exemption Certificate for epilepsy.
- Documentation from the Motability Scheme (contrat de location de véhicule).
You can apply for the railcard online or in person, and someone can assist you with the application process if needed.
Proof of Eligibility
If any of the situations mentioned above resonate with you, check the list below to find out what proof you’ll need to submit when applying for your Railcard :
- Receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Child Disability Payment for mobility, or at the higher or middle rate for help with personal care:
You will need to provide a copy of your award letter showing receipt of DLA or Child Disability Payment in the past 12 months. - Receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) at any rate :
A copy of your award letter showing receipt of PIP or ADP in the past 12 months. - Have a visual impairment :
Provide either a Social Services official stamp in the space allocated on the downloadable form if applying online or a copy of your Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI), BP1 Certificate (Scotland), or BD8 Certificate for being registered blind or partially-sighted. - Are registered as deaf or use a hearing aid :
Provide either a Social Services official stamp in the space allocated on the downloadable form or a copy of the front page of your NHS battery book or a copy of your dispensing prescription from a private hearing aid supplier. - Have epilepsy :
If you experience repeated attacks even when receiving drug treatment, or you are prohibited from driving, you will need to submit a copy of your Exemption Certificate for epilepsy medication and a photocopy of your epilepsy medication prescription.- If you live in Scotland or Wales, or are 60+ in England (where a Medical Exemption Card is not required), upload a copy of your prescription and proof of address (if not shown on the prescription).If you live in England, you must also upload proof of date of birth (if not shown on the prescription).
- Receive Attendance Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance, or Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) : A copy of your award letter.
- Receive War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement : A copy of your award letter.
- Receive War or Service Disablement Pension for 80% or more disability : A copy of your award letter.
- Are buying or leasing a vehicle through the Motability scheme : A copy of your leasing or hire-purchase agreement, dated within the past 12 months.
The railcard is not only limited to train travel but also provides discounts on bus fares in some areas. If you’re eligible, you may also be able to travel for free on buses or receive a 30% discount on train fares.
