Of the 1.2 million Freedom Pass users across London, around 138,000 older-person’s pass holders will renew their passes in the new year – including about 6,500 in Croydon.
Older people across Croydon whose Freedom Passes are due to expire on 31 March will receive a letter in January explaining how to renew their pass.
The Freedom Pass allows older adults to travel on public transport for free across the capital – as well as on local bus services throughout England at certain times – and is Europe’s most comprehensive free travel scheme.
Pass holders are being encouraged to renew online, which is a straightforward process and takes only a few minutes. Library computers can be used, but holders should book in advance to be sure of availability. Additionally, the computer terminals in Access Croydon can be used, with no need to book in advance.
While online renewal is the preferred method, pass holders who cannot get online can renew their Freedom Pass through the post using the form that is enclosed with their renewal letter.
Please note – Freedom Passes cannot be renewed at the Post Office.
Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet member for families, health and social care
“Anyone whose older-person’s pass expires on 31 March is entitled to a new one, provided they still live in London – it’s just a matter of waiting until your letter arrives and following the instructions.
“New passes can be used as soon as they arrive, there’s no need to wait for the old ones to expire. You should destroy the old pass when your new one arrives.
“If you’ve changed address within London, and not informed the Freedom Pass helpline, please do so to ensure the letter is sent to the correct address.
“Anyone who hasn’t yet received their letter but knows someone who has, shouldn’t panic – it’s on its way and will be with you by the end of January.
“This process has been carefully tested and we’re confident it’s easy to use – but if anyone needs help they can visit their local library.”
Anyone whose pass expires in March but has not received a renewal letter by 31 January should contact London Councils via www.freedompass.org or call 0300 330 1433.
And residents who are within 14 days of reaching state retirement age are reminded that they can apply for their first older-person’s pass online at www.freedompass.org or download a form from that site to complete and apply by post.
