A day out with a friend, fish and chips in Brighton, and another adventure already being planned—all with a little help from KCIL.
D is a Kingston resident who regularly pops into the KCIL office for a chat and some support with any issues that come up. On one recent visit, he had something a bit different to discuss: planning a trip to the seaside.
D and his friend P had discovered that the red rose symbol on their Freedom Passes meant they could use them on local buses beyond London, across England. They decided to put that knowledge to good use with a day trip from Kingston to Brighton.
Our caseworker Natasha sat down with D at a KCIL computer and helped him work out a bus route using an online journey planner. With their route planned and Freedom Passes ready, the friends were all set.
D and P left Kingston at 9am and arrived in Brighton at 3pm. It was quite a journey! Once they arrived, they rang KCIL to let us know they had made it safely. There was just enough time for fish and chips before heading back to Kingston the way they had come.
Both had a great day out—and they are already planning their next trip.
We loved hearing about their adventure. Sometimes, a little practical help with planning can make it easier to get out, try something new and do the things you enjoy.
Where could your Freedom Pass take you?
If your Freedom Pass has the red rose symbol, you can use it for free travel on most local bus services throughout England.
Outside London, the usual travel times are:
- Monday to Friday: 9.30am to 11pm.
- Weekends and bank holidays: any time.
The scheme does not cover every service: most intercity coaches are excluded. Check with the bus operator if you are unsure, and plan your return journey too.
How to get a Freedom Pass
Freedom Passes are available to eligible London residents, either through age eligibility or a qualifying disability.
You can check eligibility and find application information on the Freedom Pass website. Applications for a Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass are handled by your local council.
Have you enjoyed a day out or discovered somewhere new with your Freedom Pass? We’d love to hear where you went—and your suggestions for D and P’s next adventure!
