Alternative Transport Information Sheet
The recent changes to Taxicard in your Borough, may mean you need to consider other ways of getting around. Here is our quick guide to other transport services you may be able to use. If you would like more information about any of these services, please call our Transport Helpline or email us at
Dial-a-Ride
Dial-a-Ride is a free door to door service provide by Transport for London for people who find it difficult to use public transport.
Once you are a member of Dial-a-Ride, which can take a few weeks, you can book local journeys (no more than 5 miles) through a centralised call centre. You cannot use Dial-a-Ride to get to the hospital, but they will take you to shops, community centres, GP surgeries and to visit friends.
Dial-a-Ride is a very popular service, so you don’t always get every trip you want, but don’t give up!
If you go somewhere every week, apply for a regular booking. Once accepted, this means you won’t have to ring every week, you will be picked up automatically.
Call our Transport Helpline on 020 7737 2339 and we can send you an application form, or you can download it here
Patient Transport
Every hospital has a patient transport service to collect and return patients who have restricted mobility and have no other way of getting to hospital. They will usually ask many questions, such as if you can use public transport or have access to a car.
Consider your answers carefully as they will determine whether you will be allocated transport.
Phone your hospital switchboard and ask to be transferred to Patient Transport.
Community Transport
Most London boroughs have a community transport organisation which can provide a vital link in the accessible transport network. They vary in size and the services they provide.
Some offer to door to door services to individuals, while some only provide services to local groups. Some hire their vehicles out with or without drivers.
We would strongly recommend that you contact your local community transport organisation, to find out what services they provide. Click here to get the details for your local community Transport Scheme
Unfortunately the boroughs of Camden, Greenwich, Newham and Redbridge do not have community transport schemes, but you may be able to use the services of CT schemes in neighbouring boroughs.
London Buses
London has a huge network of buses that have a number of features which exist to make bus travel accessible to disabled and older passengers. Don’t be afraid to ask the driver to ‘kneel’ the bus so you can board more easily.
All buses are fitted with ramps but unfortunately, they do occasionally break down. Try to give yourself extra time where possible in case you cannot board the first bus.
Wheelchair users have priority over baby buggies. Ask the driver to intervene if a passenger refuses to move from the space.
All buses use the ibus system which informs passengers of bus location with visual displays and audio announcements. Assistance dogs are welcome on all buses.
If you would like to increase your confidence in using the bus network, get in touch with Transport for London’s Travel Mentoring Service, and you will be able to get up to ten journeys accompanied by a member of TfL staff to build your confidence and understanding of the network.
Travel Mentoring Service: 020 7027 5822
Train Services
Train services often have the same access issues as the Underground, with steps and gaps preventing many people using the service. However, you can phone ahead and arrange for staff to provide assistance at both ends of your journey. This is called Assisted Travel. You should book at least 24 hours in advance, but the service can often be available if you call on the day.
All train companies are required by law to provide a service from your nearest station. If that station is not accessible, they should pay for a taxi to take you to the nearest station that is. You will need to give the train operating company 24 hours notice to arrange this.
Call our Transport Helpline and we will give you the number for your local train company.
London Underground
Only a small percentage of tube stations have step free access, although it can be possible to travel on the tube if you plan ahead.
You can ask Underground staff to assist you with buying tickets and travel information. If you have an assistance dog, staff should help you to avoid escalators where possible or stop them so you can walk.
Staff should help you onto the train if necessary and help you find a seat. They will then call ahead to your destination or interchange stations and arrange for a member of staff to meet you there.
All ticket offices are fitted with an induction loop.
We can help you plan your journey; call our Transport Helpline on 020 7737 2339
Docklands Light Rail (DLR)
The DLR runs to East London from Bank or Tower Gateway stations. It was designed to be the first fully accessible railway in the UK. All DLR stations have a lift or ramp access to the platforms and relatively level access to the trains.
Discounted travel and parking
There are several Travel schemes that you may be eligible for that allow you to travel at a reduced rate. Please call our Transport Helpline for more information about Freedom Pass, Blue Badge and Railcards.
Transport Helpline
If you have any questions or have had difficulty using any of the transport services you are entitled to, please get in touch. We can take up complaints on your behalf, assist you with application forms or help you plan your journey.
Our office hours are Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm
Transport Helpline: 020 7737 2339