Fears over Freedom Pass renewal deadline

Published: 19 March 2010
by PETER GRUNER

PENSIONERS and disabled people voiced more concerns this week about the problems of renewing free travel passes as the end-of-the-month deadline nears.

Those who applied to renew their Freedom Pass this week may not get a new one by March 31 when the old one  runs out.

Chairman of Islington Pensioners Forum George Durack said many of his members needed escorting to the Post Office and help with filling out forms. “On top of that they have to pay £5 for a passport photo, which for those on a state pension is a lot of money,” he added

Mr Durack described the Islington renewal system as “bureaucratic” and “cumbersome”. In neighbouring Camden pensioners can send off for a new Freedom Pass by post. 

He added: “What was wrong with the old system of renewing the card? All you needed to do was fill in a form at the Post Office and they gave it to you over the counter.”

• London Councils estimates that around 150,000 people have yet to apply for their pass.

The old style passes will be valid for a further two months after the deadline of March 31.