Disabled Londoners will receive free travel passes for their carers under plans revealed today to make the capital more accessible.
The Mayor vowed to introduce a “companion pass” that would allow a relative, friend or carer to travel free on the Tube, bus and Transport for London rail network when with a disabled person.
The pledge is the first of Sadiq Khan’s re-election campaign. He would instruct TfL to start work on introducing the pass on “day one” of a second term. The mayoral election is on May 7.
About 180,000 people already qualify for a disabled persons Freedom Pass but many find it difficult to get around unaccompanied.
Only 78 Tube stations are “step-free” and Mr Khan’s plans to increase this to more than 100 is behind schedule. Just 10 stations have gone step-free since he was elected in 2016.
Mr Khan said: “I want to ensure... that travel in the capital is inclusive and affordable. The ‘companion pass’ is intended to make a big difference to disabled Londoners.”
The pass will be funded by TfL — unlike the Freedom Pass, which costs the 33 borough councils £321 million a year.
It is expected to be issued in the name of the Freedom Pass holder, allowing it to be used by different family members, friends or carers.
