What is the National Bus Pass Scheme?

The Scheme was announced in the 2006 Budget by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and replaces all existing local Schemes from 1 April 2008.  The new pass allows free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England for eligible people.  Mid Suffolk pass holders will have the additional benefits of being able to travel at any time (24 hours a day, seven days a week) for journeys starting in Suffolk, and of Key Card discounts.

Which bus services can I travel on?

The new pass will entitle holders to free off-peak travel (9.30am to 11pm) on local bus services in England. Scheduled coach services are not included (unless they are also registered as local services).

What will the new pass look like?

The new national pass will be in a standard format, it will include your photograph and have a unique number so we can identify your pass.  It will also be a smartcard.  A smartcard is a plastic card containing a microchip which can store information electronically.  At some time in the future there will be a requirement for all buses to have smartcard readers and therefore new passes are being provided on the basis of this requirement coming forward.  In the short term passes will simply be shown to the driver as at present.

I already have a Suffolk Saver/Key Card – how do I get the new National Bus Pass?

Suffolk Saver/Key Cards expiring on 31 March 2008 will be automatically upgraded.  Your new pass will be posted to you in late March ready for use from 1 April 2008.

Who is eligible for a National Bus Pass / Key Card?

A person permanently resident in Mid Suffolk District who:

Is aged 60 years or over;
Is registered with the Social Services Department as blind or partially sighted;
Is registered with the Social Services Department as disabled;
Suffers from a permanent disability which seriously impairs their ability to walk; or
Is not permitted to drive or likely to be refused a driving licence for medical reasons

What documents will I need to submit with my application?

If you are aged 60+ you will need to send a photocopy of a document showing your date of birth (e.g. birth certificate, medical card, driving licence, passport etc.) and a passport-sized photograph together with proof of your address (e.g. utility bill).
Eligibility criteria for disabilities vary according to the disability.  For more information please contact our Customer Service Centre on 0845 6060 6067 who will be able to give further guidance.

How will my documents be returned?

Please do not send original documents as we cannot accept responsibility for any loss.  Photocopies of documents will not be returned.  If you are enrolling in person at a Customer Service Centre, original documents are required.

Do I need to apply in person?

Application forms may be requested by telephone or in person by contacting our Customer Service Centres. Completed forms may be returned by post or handed in to one of our Customer Service Centres.  You can apply online for a Key Card by following the link on the service description.  Note that if you apply online, you will still need to post your supporting documents to the Customer Service Centre, or present them in-person.

How long will it take to receive my National Bus Pass/Key Card?

Passes are normally issued 7/10 days after receipt of the correctly completed application form and relevant documentation.

How long will my new National Bus Pass/Key Card last?

Your National Bus Pass/Key Card will be valid for up to five years.  All cards expire on 31 March 2013 regardless of the date of issue.

Can I use my National Bus Pass on the Park and Ride service?

Yes, providing all members of the travelling party hold a National Bus Pass.  When boarding show your pass(es) to the driver who will then issue your ticket.

Is there any charge for a Suffolk Saver/Key Card?

Passes are free but there is a £5.00 administration fee for the replacement of lost cards.

I have lost my Bus Pass/Key Card – what should I do?

Please contact the Customer Service Centre.  An administration fee of £5.00 will be charged for the replacement of lost cards.  You do not need to provide another photograph.

What happens if I am not able to travel by bus?

If you are unable to use conventional public transport you may be eligible for help in the form of concessionary travel vouchers.  For more information please contact 01449 724673.

I have moved, what should I do?

If you have moved to another address in Mid Suffolk District you only need to advise our Customer Service Centre of your new address.  If you have moved to another district you will need to contact the council to whom you are paying council tax and request another bus pass.

What if I no longer need/can use my National Bus Pass/Key Card?

If a bus pass holder becomes ineligible for any reason, he/she or the next of kin must surrender the card to the council.  If you wish to still have a Key Card please contact our Customer Service Centre on 0845 6060 6067.