DWP PIP rule changes and what they mean for free bus passes across UK

The recent announcement of new PIP regulations has dealt a severe blow to disabled individuals in one part of the UK, with local MPs and charity representatives claiming the welfare reductions are "immoral".

Many existing benefits are contingent on PIPeligibility, which could see people out of pocket by hundreds if revoked. One key benefit at risk is the disabled concessionary travel scheme throughout England, which links certain qualifying criteria to PIP entitlement.

Required proof for obtaining the pass includes evidence of receiving the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP, or scoring at least 8 points in the categories of "moving around" or "communicating verbally". This comes after a major broadband provider introduced a new £60 charge and issued a deadline to act.

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Proof can also be provided through Disability Living Allowance (DLA), specifically for those on the higher rate mobility component. Other alternatives include possessing a blue badge, receiving the War Pensioner's mobility supplement, or having an education, health and care plan for individuals up to 25 years old.

Nevertheless, the Green Paper proposals' phrasing suggests that loss of PIP might not disqualify one from retaining the pass, reports Chronicle Live.

Although mobility issues don't factor into the PIP payment assessment, qualifying for the enhanced rate mobility component, due to mobility difficulties, ensures eligibility for the pass, regardless of payment receipts. Fordisabled persons facing benefit cuts, applying for this card represents a potential avenue for financial savings.

The North East's concessionary card system is a boon for those eligible, offering free travel and reduced fares. To snag a pass at no cost or a discounted rate, you might be in luck if you are:

• An elderly person who has reached state pension age - their 66th birthday.
• A person under the pension state age with a learning, speech, visual or physical disability.
• a carer companion to a person unable to travel without your assistance.
• An individual that meets the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme criterion.

For those aiming to qualify as disabled under the scheme, here's the lowdown on eligibility:

• You must be invariably sick, disabled or suffering from any disability which has permanently and seriously impaired your mobility.
• Be permanently blind and therefor cannot do any tasks where sight is needed.
• Be diagnosed for having learning disabilities.
• Be registered as profoundly deaf, with or without speech.
• Be unable to use of both arms, be that through the absence of limbs or otherwise.
• Be unable to drive after having your driving license revoked or refused on medical grounds.
• Or registered as partially sighted (where disability can be assessed by a Consultant Ophthalmologist).

Moreover, securing a pass requires a PIP assessment and proof of receiving the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP, or scoring at least eight points in the "moving around" or "communicating verbally" categories.

Holders of the card can enjoy complimentary bus rides throughout England (bar London), trips on the Shields Ferry for just 60p, and Northern Rail journeys between Newcastle and Metrocentre/Blaydon for a mere 50p, starting from 9.30am on weekdays and all day on weekends and bank holidays.

With this card, you could pocket an annual saving of about £500, mirroring what the average person in the North East shells out on public transport each year, as per a Statista report.