Early Morning Bus Pass Support Extended To Allow Older Travellers To Attend Vaccinations

Friday, 22 January 2021 10:05

Elderly residents with concessionary bus passes will be able to access free bus travel all day, every day for essential journeys from next week.

The Isle of Wight Council said as part of its efforts to support residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, free bus travel will be available before 9.30am to help eligible residents make use of early morning slots for vaccines, healthcare, shopping and other vital appointments.

Previously, free concessionary travel for age related pass holders was valid between 9.30am and 11pm from Monday to Friday, and at any time on weekends and public holidays. The relaxation of the rules will continue until schools begin to reopen.

Councillor Ian Ward, Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, said:

“The council is extremely pleased to have reached agreement with our transport partner to extend our support for elderly residents with bus passes.

"Where possible, we want to support the vital vaccination programme and we hope this move will make things a little easier for older people who have no option but to catch the bus to get to early morning appointments.

“While passenger journeys at peak times remain significantly low due to the current national lockdown, it is very important that everyone observes the guidance provided by the government about social distancing.

"This means avoiding all unnecessary travel, avoiding and minimising social interaction between people. If you have no option but to use public transport, you should follow the public transport guidance."

Residents are reminded that they must not travel at all if they:

Have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service to self-isolate;
Are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms;
Are self-isolating as a result of COVID-19 symptoms or sharing a household or support bubble with somebody with symptoms.

If you must make an essential journey, remember these important guidelines:

Stay at least two metres (three steps) away from other people.
Wear a face covering over your mouth and nose.
Wash your hands often - with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Wash your hands before eating and after coughing or sneezing.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin and wash your hands.

Recently Played

Just Like Fire

Pink
Download
Lights Up

Harry Styles
Download
Happier

Marshmello / Bastille
Download

Red Squirrel Property Shop Ventures Into Dubai Property Market
Newport's Red Squirrel Property Shop is expanding into the dynamic Dubai property market.
New 2024/5 Annual Waste And Recycling Guide Out Soon
Island households will be receiving their new annual waste and recycling guide in the post soon.
Platform One Announces Winner Of 2024 Wight Noize Competition
The winner of this year's Wight Noize competition has been announced.
Royal Duke To Visit As Newport Minster Reopens
HRH the Duke of Edinburgh will visit to celebrate the re-opening of Newport Minster after a major refurbishment.

Early Morning Bus Pass Support Extended To Allow Older Travellers To Attend Vaccinations

Share

More from Isle of Wight News

Recently Played