Having access to different travel and transport options can support and increase your independence. You might be entitled to subsidised travel which can help with the cost of getting around, and you might be able to access travel training to help you gain the skills to travel independently.
Further education and transport
Devon publishes an Education Transport Policy for post 16 students each academic year. It sets out how we plan to help young people with disabilities in further education with their travel arrangements.
If you are looking for information about school and college transport or would like to read the policy, please see our guide to transport for children with special educational needs.
Independent travel training
Travel training gives you the confidence and skills to travel independently, this could be to college, work or around your community. Travel trainers work with you, parents/carer, tutors, social work and the Transport Co-ordination Service to ensure that the training is suited to you.
If you would like your child to take part in this scheme or to take part yourself, please contact the Transport Co-ordination Service on 0345 155 1019 or find out more on our Independent travel training page.
Public transport
Devon Access Wallet Scheme
Using public transport can be a challenging experience and often this can reduce young people with disabilities’ confidence to travel independently.
The Devon Access Wallet Scheme is aimed to make it easier for people with communications difficulties or disabilities to use public transport across the county.
The fluorescent orange wallet lets transport staff know that you may need help with your journey. Inside the wallet is information to help the transport staff better understand your needs including destination, ticket type and emergency contact details.
There’s more information about the Access Wallet Scheme on the Travel Devon website. You can also contact the team by email at accesswallet@devon.gov.uk or by phone on 01392 383509.
National Bus Pass
The National Bus Pass entitles the pass holder to free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.
The Travel Devon website explains who can qualify for a bus pass, what the bus pass entitles you to and how to apply, visit the Travel Devon website.
You can also contact the team on 01392 383688 or at nationalbuspass@devon.gov.uk.
Companion Bus Pass
You can also apply for a Companion Bus Pass if you are of secondary school age or above, have a severe disability and are only able to access local bus services with the assistance of a travelling companion.
The Devon Companion Bus Pass provides free travel in the Devon County Council area for one person travelling with a disabled person when they use their National Bus Pass.
Find out more about the pass, the application criteria or how to apply on the Travel Devon website.
Discounted rail travel
Disabled people in Devon may be eligible for discounted rail travel with the Disabled Persons Railcard.
We don’t handle applications for the Disabled Persons Railcard, but for further information visit the Disabled Persons Railcard website or contact the application helpline on 0345 605 0525 (minicom/textphone 0345 601 0132 for customers with hearing impairments).
Blue Badge
Having a blue badge can be very helpful as it enables you to park nearer to your destination. Find out if you can get a blue badge.
Community transport
Community transport is provided by a network of voluntary organisations that help people get to the shops, medical appointments or leisure activities where no alternative or suitable transport is available. Find out more about community transport.
Driving
If you are thinking of enquiring about driving lessons there are specially trained instructors with adapted vehicles to help meet your needs.
Disabilitydrivinginstructors.com can provide more advice and help to find an instructor near you.