Following consultation with town and parish councils and local parish representatives, the majority of those who responded were either in support of the proposed change or had no view. Their comments included the following:
‘After 28 years of being a volunteer I should welcome the change’
‘I support your proposals, I do not like the security risks involved in storing travel tokens’
‘I’ve no objection to people being sent the tokens from NTTL. It will be much easier for me, it’s always a worry having tokens around and it is time consuming’
The main concern of those not supporting the proposed change was around the aspect of issuing travel tokens in rural areas where this is seen as an annual social occasion and an opportunity to keep contact with the elderly residents. However, local councils could find other methods of keeping contact and arranging social occasions.
Officers discussed the consultation responses with the relevant Cabinet Member and agreed that the new method of distributing travel tokens will commence from 1 April 2007. Applicants who apply for travel tokens for the first time will need to complete an application form and supply evidence of residency and age or disability, if relevant. Applicants who received travel tokens in 2006/07 will be sent a simple renewal form to sign and return to us. National Transport Tokens Ltd will post the travel tokens directly to eligible residents by recorded delivery. The changes to the scheme will be advertised as widely as possible and application forms will be sent to all parish and town councils.
The age of eligibility remains at 70 years of age for travel tokens and the value of travel tokens will remain at £20. The disabled and their necessary companions are also eligible for travel tokens. Eligible Didcot residents who apply, will also receive the additional £10 worth of travel tokens (funded by Didcot Town Council).
It should be noted that residents can only receive travel tokens or a free bus pass, they cannot have both.
If any councillor would like any further information on these proposals please contact Jayne Bolton, Grants Manager on 01491 823136 or email jayne.bolton@southoxon.gov.uk
Sue Cooper