Free travel on buses and ferries
Being able to travel easily on the bus can open up lots of opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. It can mean the difference between being able to work or not, or to keep in touch with friends and get out and about in the community.
Older people (aged over 60) and some disabled people can obtain a National Entitlement Card that allows them to travel free on most buses across Scotland. If you cannot travel unassisted, then it is possible to get a companion card to allow someone to also travel for free with you on your journey.
For people who live in island communities, it is also possible to get two free return ferry journey to the Scottish mainland each year.
To apply for a National Entitlement Card, contact your local authority transport section. The simplest way to qualify is to be in receipt of the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance. Many adults with learning disabilities get only the lower mobility rate or the care component. This doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get a National Entitlement Card - there are other ways that disabled people can qualify.
You will also find more information about concessionary travel on the website of Transport Scotland.