Here is a summary of some travel concessions and travel cards for which blind and partially sighted people could be eligible.
National Entitlement Card
In Scotland, the National Entitlement Card (NEC) gives sight impaired and severely sight impaired travellers free bus travel and free and concessionary standard class travel on transport across Scotland, with concessions on ferries in Scotland only. Some privately owned ferries, premium airport buses and bus tours may not be included.
• A National Entitlement Card will have an eye symbol on it for sighted impaired or severely sight impaired travellers.
• If the cardholder cannot travel alone, and they have a card with a +1 sign beside the eye symbol, this indicates concessionary travel for the cardholder plus a travelling companion. The companion element is only available if the user is registered as severely sight impaired or is in receipt of medium or higher rates or care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)/Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance (AA). Not every local authority concessionary travel scheme may provide concessionary travel for a companion as well – you should check with your local authority what their scheme provides.
• A National Entitlement Card will be valid until a certain date and needs to be replaced when the card date expires.
How to apply for a National Entitlement Card
Local authorities in Scotland issue the National Entitlement Card. To apply for the card, please contact your local authority or contact Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT). You will then need to complete an application form. For further information, visit https://www.nec.scot/
Disabled Persons Railcard
A Disabled Persons Railcard can be used for rail travel in Scotland, England and Wales. The card gives you a third off rail travel fares for you and a travel companion. How to apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard You can apply online or via post by completing the form at disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk or you can pick up a form at a train station. For further information, visit disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk
Blue Badge
The Blue Badge scheme enables Blue Badge holders to park on-street in reserved disabled parking spaces near a venue so that services can be accessed more easily. Though the parking concessions don’t apply to private car parks, some may still have signage indicating concessions for Blue Badge holders. The Blue Badge is valid only when the registered badge holder is travelling. You are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge if you are registered as severely sight impaired and you may be eligible if you are sight impaired. You can also be eligible if you have severe mobility problems or you are in receipt of certain benefits.
How to apply for a Blue Badge in Scotland
In Scotland, Blue Badges are administered by local authorities. Contact your local authority to apply. You can also apply online at mygov.scot/apply-blue-badge