Frequently asked questions

What is the new National Concession?

From the 1st April 2008, the new National Bus Concession will enable eligible users to get free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.

Who is eligible for the new concession?
If you are aged 60 or over, or eligible disabled (more information) and live in England, you are eligible.

When will I be able to travel?
If starting in Southampton you will be able to travel between 09.00am and midnight Mondays to Fridays but anytime at weekends and bank holidays. For journeys starting outside Southampton you must hold an ENC pass and you can travel between 09.30 and 23.00 Mondays to Fridays and anytime at weekends and bank holidays.

Off peak hours are 9.30 am until 11pm Monday-Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays.

What is the definition of a “local” bus?
In Southampton the main local buses include First Bus Company, Solent Blue Line, Wilts & Dorset and Uni-link. Other areas have different local bus companies. If in doubt, please check with the service operator.

When will I receive my new bus pass?
If you already have a Smartcities bus pass and are over 60 years of age, you will receive your new bus pass at the end of March 2008. If you have a disabled persons pass you will have to reapply. The Smartcities department will send you a new application form at the end of February.

Is it only applicable to buses?
The new concession applies just to local bus travel.

If I visit an area that offers additional services, will I be entitled to them?
Probably not. As a general rule, local authorities will only provide additional services for their own residents. Please check with the relevant authority in the area to which you intend to travel.

Can I still have a companion pass?
If you are eligible you can still apply for a companion pass for local travel. Your companion can only travel free, and only within the Southampton City Council boundary, when accompanying you.

Where can I use my new bus pass?
You can travel across England, including the Isle of Wight. This means you cannot travel free in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

What happens with the services on my existing Smartcities card?
All services on your existing Smartcities card will be transferred onto your new card.

Will Blind people have a special pass?
Blind people will have a disabled bus pass with a small green triangle.

Can Blind people still travel at any time?
Blind persons are permitted to travel free at any time. However, when travelling before 9.30am they are confined to the local bus scheme. This means that they can travel on any bus service, which starts in Southampton and goes on a direct route, on production of their concessionary bus pass featuring a green triangle.

How can I apply for a bus pass?
Application forms are available from Gateway in the Civic Centre, local libraries, and local housing offices and can be printed from our website here.

What documents do I need to apply for a bus pass?
You need to complete an application form and provide one proof of address which should not be older than 3 months, and one proof of personal identification which can be your passport, your driving licence, your birth certificate or medical card. You also need to attach a clear and recent colour passport photograph with light background.

Where can I hand my application in?
Please take your completed form to any library or local housing office or Gateway in the Civic Centre.

Which bus goes where?
To find out how to do a journey by bus contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit www.traveline.org.uk.