A SLAP IN THE FACE FOR THE DISABLED IN SURREY?

10.27.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 12th Mar 2008

Walking will be the only option for Surrey Heath Disabled and Over 60's before 9.30am when the new bus pass scheme starts on April 1st

When the revised bus pass scheme comes into effect at the end of March holders of the new pass will be able to travel out of their 'home' local authority area, giving them much greater freedom than at present.

Obviously this is good news BUT the bad news for Surrey disabled pass holder residents is that the new passes cannot be used at any time as at present but not until after 9.30am on a week day. The present passes, which can be used by senior citizens from 9am, will also change to 9.30am. This might not be too much of a problem for retired people - although there could be implications for early morning doctor or hospital appointments - but for disabled people who work, this could create considerable problems and incur increased expenditure.

"This change to the timings of the scheme with regard to disabled people creates the possibility that disabled people currently unemployed and on benefits may now be dissuaded from accepting work," said David Whitcroft, Lib Dem leader on Surrey Heath Borough Council. "On a relatively short trip, for example, from the Old Dean estate in Camberley to Frimley we estimate a disabled worker will be paying £14 PER WEEK extra under the new arrangements. These extra costs incurred in travel may just make the difference between somebody taking a job or not,"

"The decision by the Surrey Local Authorities - including Surrey Heath - seems to be a clear example of penny pinching made without taking into account the full impact of the implications on people who have a difficult enough time as it is."

Cllr Whitcroft called on the Surrey Authorities to review the decision.

"Even at this late stage, it should be possible to change the rules for people who are able to produce proof of their disability, as with the current scheme.

Everybody is agreed that it is far better for disabled people to take employment if they are able to do so. This change of timing is a clear disincentive to the disabled and will be seen by them as a slap in the face when they are trying, against considerable difficulties, to earn a living for themselves and their families."