Badenoch MSP calls for free transport for most vulnerable
A call has been made for concessionary travel to be extended to rural transport schemes such as the one operating in the strath.
Local MSP Dave Thompson (SNP) has just met with the Badenoch and Strathspey Community Transport Company and Age Scotland to offer support for their campaign ‘Still Waiting’.
It highlights the fact that Scotland's concessionary travel scheme does not extend to some of the operations of community transport programmes.
The Badenoch MSP said: “For many older people around Scotland, but particularly for those in remote areas, community transport operators are the only form of transport available.
"I believe it is important to extend the legislation to ensure that all types of vehicles are covered.”
He said community transport groups are particularly important in remote areas, where bus routes are not as extensive.
Community transport groups offer a demand responsive service, which means that more vulnerable people are able to make essential trips like attending a doctor’s surgery or getting in their shopping.
Jo Cowan, from Age Scotland, said: “Isolation caused by a lack of transport is an issue affecting thousands of people in Scotland, but the issue is particularly acute in the Highlands where many people rely on community transport organisations.
“Age Scotland is delighted that local MSP Dave Thompson recognises the vital contribution that community transport groups make to health and wellbeing, and is grateful for his support to extend the concessionary travel scheme to cover community transport groups.”
Maggie Lawson, Development Manager at the Badenoch and Strathspey Community Transport Company also attended the meeting in Aviemore.
She said: "In an area like Badenoch and Strathspey, around 95% of the people we have on our register are older, and rely on us as they cannot access public transport.
"This is particularly an issue for people with mobility problems, as few buses are equipped with low floors.”
Mr Thompson said he would now be taking the matter forward in Government.
He said: “Free travel for older people is an excellent policy which ensures that those who have contributed to our society for many years are able to remain active in that society during their retirement."
