Concessionary fare schemes
For more information, visit the Parkinson’s UK website (last updated May 2026).
Concessionary travel schemes let some people travel on public transport for free or at a lower cost. They are usually for older people and some disabled people.
The availability and rules of these schemes vary across the UK. A Disabled or Senior Railcard can also give discounts on trains across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Each nation in the UK sets the minimum that should be available to help pay for travel. Who qualifies as a disabled person for this help also varies between each country in the UK:
In England, if you are at state pension age or meet disability criteria, you may be able to get free off-peak local bus travel.
Disabled person’s buss pass (National)
Older person’s bus pass (National)
In Northern Ireland, if you’re 60 or over, you can apply for a Senior SmartPass for free bus and rail travel in Northern Ireland. If you’re under 60 and meet disability criteria, you may be able to get a Half Fare SmartPass, which gives half-price travel.
In Scotland, if you’re over 60 or have a disability, you may get free bus travel on most local and long-distance services with a National Entitlement Card. Some people can also take a companion for free. You may also get cheaper rail travel in some areas.
In Wales, if you’re over 60 or meet disability criteria, you can apply for a Concessionary Travel Pass. This gives free travel on most bus services in Wales and the borders, and discounted or free rail travel in some areas.
Rail and coach discounts are available by means of schemes such as Disabled Persons Railcards, Senior Railcards and National Express Coachcards.