Paid for largely by the capital’s borough councils, and administered by the pan-London body London Councils, the Freedom Pass is the UK’s most comprehensive concessionary fares scheme and is a vital service for the millions of older and disabled Londoners.
Holders can renew their pass from Monday (4th January) at their local Post Office. A roadshow organised by London Councils will visit every borough in London to provide information on renewing passes. Roadshow locations and dates are available from the London Councils website.
In an attempt to improve security, the new passes will be issued in a smart card format and will include a photograph of the owner on the card itself rather than on a separate photocard as is currently the case.
The changes mean the new cards cannot be issued over the counter and may take up to 10 working days to arrive so holders are being urged to ensure they apply for their new pass well before 31 March.
Chairman of London Councils Transport and Environment Committee, Councillor Mike Fisher, said: “The Freedom Pass is a wonderful example of boroughs working together to improve the lives of older and disabled members of our community.
“I would urge all Freedom Pass holders to ensure they renew their passes well before 31 March to ensure they continue to enjoy the benefits of the scheme.”
Further information, about how to renew your Freedom Pass or apply for the first time, is available from www.freedompass.org or through the Freedom Pass telephone support line 0845 275 7054 (Mondays-Fridays between 9am and 5pm).
Peter Ruthven says
Waiting 8 weeks 4 days for my new paas ( is this a record). Endless problems with staff on Sutton buses,the Northen line and District Line for the passed two weeks when the readers refused my pass, NO STAFF SEEM TO HAVE BEEN INFORMED OF THE FACT THAT MY OLD PASS CAN NOW BE USED UNTILL THE END OF MAY.