Advocacy Information & Advice—Transport

There is some help with transport available for people with mental health problems. Some of the day centres and work centres will reimburse people’s bus fares or arrange to bring people in to the centre by the hospital car service or taxi. How this is done depends on the centre and you should ask at individual centres.

Fares to Hospital

People on certain benefits and holders of low income certificates HC2 are entitled to a refund of essential fares to and from hospital for themselves and their dependants. (see page …)You must use the cheapest means of travel available. This is normally bus, but petrol costs or taxi fares may be paid if there is no public transport or if your disability prevents you using it.

Other people on low income (and their dependants) who hold a certificate HC3 are entitled to a contribution towards their travel costs.

In all cases, apply directly at the hospital for your money. You must prove your entitlement by showing either your certificate or proof of benefit (payment book or award letter).

Railcard

People will not normally qualify for a Disabled Person’s Railcard as a result of mental health problems alone, but you will do so if you receive Disability Living Allowance (Middle or Higher Rate Care Component) or if you receive Severe Disablement Allowance.  The card entitles you to one third of most train fares.