The eligibility criteria for the Disabled Persons Railcard is undergoing a significant expansion, allowing hundreds of thousands more people to access substantial discounts on train travel from this Sunday. Industry body the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) has confirmed that the rules are being broadened to include a wider range of both visible and non-visible disabilities.
Who Qualifies for the Expanded Railcard?
Among the groups newly eligible to purchase the railcard are individuals who possess a Blue Badge for parking, hold a disabled person's bus pass, are medically prohibited from driving, or have conditions that prevent speech. This change follows a comprehensive review conducted by the RDG, the Department for Transport, and the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee.
Financial Benefits and Current Usage
The railcard costs £20 for a one-year validity or £54 for three years, providing a substantial 33% discount on train fares for both the named cardholder and an accompanying adult. According to RDG estimates, this translates to average annual savings of approximately £126 per card. Currently, around 390,000 of these railcards are in active circulation across the rail network.
Industry and Government Perspectives
RDG Chief Executive Jacqueline Starr emphasized that these modifications represent "an important step forward in helping more people access rail and travel with confidence." She further elaborated, "Working closely with Government, the industry is committed to building a railway that reflects the needs of the communities we serve today and in the future, ensuring our network is inclusive, welcoming and supportive for every passenger."
Rail Minister Lord Hendy reinforced this commitment, stating, "Whether it's commuting to work, accessing education or visiting loved ones, everyone should be able to travel with confidence. We are putting accessibility at the heart of our railways through the Accessible Railways Roadmap, which lays the foundations for a longer-term transformation under Great British Railways."
Further Expansion Planned for September
The eligibility criteria will undergo another substantial extension in September to include conditions that require professional health evidence and more detailed assessment. This second phase of expansion aims to incorporate individuals with disabilities that necessitate formal medical documentation, thereby broadening access even further.
This progressive expansion of the Disabled Persons Railcard represents a concerted effort by both industry and government to enhance rail accessibility and affordability for disabled passengers across the United Kingdom.
