One of your options, if you are no longer driving, is to use the bus.
If you live near a bus route that takes you into your local town, this can be an easy way to do your shopping and make other essential or leisure trips.
Bus routes
If you have not travelled by bus locally before, you can get information on routes and timetables online or by phoning your local authority or bus company.
Bus stops
Your nearest bus stop may provide seating and shelter in case you have to wait for a bus. In the bigger towns and cities, it may also include live information on when the next bus is due.
On board
All local bus services should now be run using wheelchair accessible buses with low floors, a ramp (which the driver will extend to help you get on and off if you cannot manage the step) and a special area for a passenger to sit in a wheelchair.
The bus will also have lots of handrails and hand poles that are easy to see and easy to grip to help you keep your balance while you look for a seat.
On some services there are announcements – both spoken and on a screen, – to tell you the next stop. You can also ask the driver to let you know when your stop is approaching.
Travelling with a scooter
Different bus companies have different rules about the size and type of scooter that they will allow on board. Generally, this means that the scooter should be no more than 600 mm wide and 1000 mm long and be able to turn in a space of 1200 mm. Contact your local bus company to check the rules in your area and to find out if your scooter will be accepted.
Getting a Bus Pass
Older and disabled people in England can travel free on local buses outside the peak travel hours. To benefit from free travel, you need to apply for a disabled person’s or older person’s bus pass. For details go to https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-disabled-bus-pass or call your local authority.
There may be a Transport Hub near you which could help and offer advice and guidance.