Harrogate MP Tom Gordon has challenged the Transport Minister on the "unfair" policy that prevents disabled people from using their bus passes before 9am.
Mr Gordon raised this issue following a panel discussion he chaired last week, which provided disabled people with a platform to voice their concerns directly to key experts.
Organised by Disability Action Yorkshire, a local charity dedicated to empowering disabled individuals, the event brought together specialists in transport, housing, healthcare, employment, and town centre accessibility.
Community members shared their experiences, highlighting the significant challenges they face in accessing healthcare, navigating public transport, and securing employment.
One of the key issues raised was the inability for disabled people to use their bus passes before 9am.
This restrictive bus pass rule prevents disabled people from travelling at the same time as everyone else – whether for work, education, or social trips.
Tom said:
“Hearing disabled people in Yorkshire tell me last week that they are unable to use their disabled bus pass during peak hours completely shocked me. It is completely unacceptable and places unnecessary limitations on disabled people’s lives.
“This restriction prevents disabled people from doing what so many of us take for granted – using public transport at peak times to get to work, school, or town centres. It severely limits opportunities and reinforces inequality.
“As a society, we must work together to break down the barriers disabled people face daily.
“The government must take action and make meaningful changes.
“I hope the Minister agrees to meet with us and does not continue to ignore the needs of disabled people.”
Mr Gordon has written to the Minister requesting a meeting alongside Jackie Snape, Chief Executive of Disability Action Yorkshire, to further discuss how the government can address this issue proactively.
Harrogate MP joins volunteers to deliver Meals on Wheels
'Cruel and controlling': Harrogate man jailed after years of abuse
Harrogate Brewing Co win awards for region's best beer
Ripon pub owners named national winners of community award
Knaresborough pubs to host premiere of festive film shot in the town
Air ambulance rescue teenager after horror quad bike crash near Pateley Bridge
Country estate set to be powered by solar energy
Harrogate law firm retains top-tier recognition in UK legal guides
Your Harrogate to launch Lewis Capaldi ticket giveaway during Stray Bonfire
Harrogate strongman set to compete for British title
Calls for Yorkshire Water Chief to resign following "immoral and unjustifiable" offshore payments
Long-established Harrogate tech shop set to move to bigger premises
Warnings after confirmation of bird flu in North Yorkshire
First look at Harewood House's Bridgerton-inspired Christmas
Harrogate's most festive pub to return this month
Ripon hotel scoops two national awards following public vote
Remembrance Sunday: Events, parades and road closures
Harrogate care residents race wheelchairs in support of Meals on Wheels
Harrogate stay and play café announces 'heartbreaking' closure
Newly refurbished pub near Knaresborough named among best in UK
:format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-6831713-1427558147-6245.jpeg.jpg)
