Maidenhead & Windsor

Bus pass holders in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will soon be able to enjoy “a little bit of help from their friends” when they travel thanks to a new Free companion scheme for carers to be introduced on Monday 30 March.

Following requests from regular Windsor and Maidenhead bus pass users, councillors have given the thumbs-up to the new scheme of companion passes which will allow carers to travel free when accompanying the pass holder on bus journeys.

The new companion passes will enhance the existing free bus pass scheme introduced last April and already used by more than 20,000 Windsor and Maidenhead borough residents.

Any of the Windsor and Maidenhead borough’s existing bus pass holders – residents over the age of 60 and disabled people of all ages – will be entitled to apply for the new pass which will display a distinctive C indicating permission for a companion to travel with them free of charge.

To qualify for a companion bus pass the holder will need to show specialist proof – ie a letter from a medical specialist or social worker – confirming that they are unable to travel on buses without the help of a carer.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult and community services, said: “We have listened closely to the views of many of our bus pass users and have looked very carefully at enhancing the current scheme of bus pass allocation to reflect those concerns.

“I am confident that the new scheme will not only provide an incentive for carers to travel more frequently with the elderly or disabled person but will also make journeys less stressful for bus pass holders, knowing that they have someone with them to look out for them.

“We are committed to the safety and welfare of all our residents, and particularly the elderly and vulnerable. With spring just around the corner I am delighted that we are able to announce this exciting addition to the popular bus pass service and we hope as many pass holders as possible will take advantage of this extra benefit and encourage even greater use of our excellent bus transport system.”

Existing bus pass holders (and new applicants) who wish to take advantage of the scheme should go to either of the customer service centres in the Town Hall, Maidenhead, or York House, Windsor, from Monday 30 March, taking specialist proof for existing holders and for new applicants additional proof of residence in the borough, and evidence that they are over 60 or have a disability.

Companion bus passes are valid for journeys in both the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough and Slough. Companions can travel free when leaving the borough to travel to other areas but will have to pay for return fares if starting their return journey outside the borough.

For further information contact the Town Hall, Maidenhead, on 01628 683806 or email customer.services@rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead