Getting out and about

If you need support to get out and about in Newcastle there are a number of schemes that can help. Use the links below to jump to the information you need:

• community transport
• Motability car scheme
• Nexus TaxiCard scheme
• concessionary travel pass
• blue badge scheme
• Shopmobility

 

Community transport services in Newcastle

Community Transport hire out minibuses with drivers to community groups at reasonable rates. They provide:

• 16 seater minibuses 
• accessible minibuses with lifts and wheelchair-friendly interiors.
• drivers who are trained to the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme standard and first aid trained
• advice with travel arrangements
• Hop to the Shops scheme to help older people get to the supermarket

Return to top

Motability Scheme

Motability is a charity which provides mobility solutions for disabled people. This includes help to lease a car, powered wheelchair or scooter.

To be eligible for the Motability scheme you must receive one of the following benefits:

• Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance
• Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
• the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)

Return to top

Nexus TaxiCard Scheme – Accessible Transport

Nexus provide an accessible travel service in Tyne and Wear called TaxiCard. The TaxiCard scheme is for those who have a disability or impairment that means using public transport is difficult.

What is the TaxiCard?

The TaxiCard is a smartcard which is the same size as a credit card. You use it to pay for part of your journeys by taxi.

There are two opportunities each year to join the TaxiCard scheme: in February and August.

How do I register to become a member of the TaxiCard scheme?

You’ll need to complete a TaxiCard application form which are available from Nexus.

This can be downloaded from their website or collected from any of the Nexus Travel Shops.

Am I eligible for a TaxiCard?

You can apply for a TaxiCard if you are

• registered as severely visually impaired or blind

and/or receive any of the following benefits:

• high Rate Mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance
• higher Rate Attendance Allowance
• personal Independence Payment (PIP) – with a minimum ‘Moving Around’ score of 8

Return to top