Dear (NAME OF MSP)
I am writing to ask you to back Age Scotland’s campaign to create a fairer bus pass system for Scotland’s older people.
Local bus travel is a lifeline for many in later life. It helps people to remain independent, to access local amenities and services, and can be an important means of keeping in contact with friends and family.
The Scottish Government’s own report of May 2009 showed that the bus pass scheme helps older people to remain socially included. It also found that take-up and usage of the scheme is highest in Scotland’s most deprived areas.
But this isn’t the whole story. Research by Age Scotland shows that in remote rural areas over two thirds (70%) of those aged 60 or over either do not have a free pass, or do not use their bus pass card. This contrasts with less than a third (31%) of older people in large urban areas. Clearly, the current system does not meet the needs of all of Scotland’s older people.
For those in rural and remote communities,which are often under-served by commercial bus routes,and for those who are infirm and are unable to get to their nearest bus stop, community transport services are vital for maintaining their independence and enjoying a good quality of life. In a nutshell, without them some older people might never get out of the house.
While subsiding transport for older people can be expensive, the associated health benefits can significantly outweigh the initial financial outlay and help delay, and even avoid, entry into health settings or care homes.
Given this evidence Age Scotland believe the current bus pass scheme should be extended to include all community transport routes,with the fares charged by community operators fully reimbursed.
Thank you for your time, and please let me know if you are able to sign up in support of Age Scotland’s campaign.
Kind regards
(YOUR NAME)