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Frequently Asked Questions about the Mental Health Mobility Bus Pass
Here are some answers to questions often asked by those wanting to apply for a Mental Health Mobility Bus Pass.
Questions
Answers
What do you mean by the phrase “severe and continuing mental health problem, which meets the requirements of the relevant legislation”?
The law says people who have a “severe mental disorder” may be entitled to a mobility pass. Very briefly, a “severe mental disorder” means a mental health problem which has a significant effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day to day activities and which is permanent, or is likely to last at least 12 months.
I have a mental health problem – can I apply for a mobility pass?
If you have a severe and continuing mental health problem, which meets the requirements of the relevant legislation (the answer above explains what this means) then you are likely to be entitled to a mobility pass. Talk to your social worker, Community Psychiatric Nurse or support worker if you want more information on this point.
I’ve heard that I can get a pass so that a carer can travel with me free of charge – is this true?
If you're receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) with the Higher Rate Care component you are eligible for this additional concession. Send a copy of the DLA letter with your application form as proof of benefit level. The letter will be returned to you. The pass that is issued to you will indicate that you may have a carer travelling with you who can travel free of charge.
I have a history of using street drugs – can I apply for a mobility pass?
The law makes particular reference to the part played by drugs and/or alcohol in relation to a person’s mental health difficulties. If your continuing misuse of drugs or alcohol (whether or not such misuse amounts to dependency) is a factor in your mental health you must see your GP or consultant psychiatrist for a decision on the relevance of your substance misuse to your mental health.
I have been told that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) must refuse my application for a driving licence before I can apply for a mobility pass – is this true?
No, it isn’t. Guidance issued by the Department of Transport says that it is not necessary for a person to apply for a driving licence and be refused before they apply for a mobility pass. It is enough for the local authority to believe that they would be refused a licence if they did apply.
I can’t drive – how can I be turned down for a driving licence by the DVLA?
Guidance issued by the Department of Transport says that it is not necessary for a person to apply for a driving licence and be refused before they apply for a mobility pass. It is enough for the local authority to believe that they would be refused a licence if they did apply.
I have a valid driving licence – can I get a mobility pass?
There are two answers to this question.
- If you have told the DVLA that you have significant and continuing mental health difficulties and the DVLA have told you that you can continue to drive then you must not apply for a mobility pass on the grounds of your mental health difficulties.
- If you have not told the DVLA that you have significant and continuing mental health difficulties you must do so. Your GP or psychiatrist will be able to advise you.
If I have to ask my GP or consultant psychiatrist to sign the application form will they charge me?
They might. If they do you'll not be able to claim this back from either Sheffield City Council or Sheffield Care Trust.
Do I need to fill in an application form if I already have a mobility pass but it is due to be renewed?
Yes. The rules changed in April 2007 when concessionary travel became free. Your pass will need to be renewed every five years.
I am 16 years old and have a mental health problem – can I get a mobility pass?
Complete the application form and we will consider it on an individual basis.
I am not eligible to apply for a Mental Health Mobility Pass – is there anything I can do?
Yes, there is. You may still be able to apply for a pass if you have a disability that is not related to your mental health. Please ask for some advice at any First Point office or contact the Adult Access Team.
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