An innovative new scheme introduced today (Thursday, 24th July) by Scottish Citylink looks set to make travelling easier for elderly passengers.

The leading coach operator has been working with both Help the Aged and Age Concern on the new initiative to ensure it meets the needs of passengers using the free concessionary fares scheme in local council areas.

Scottish Citylink participates in eight council schemes including Aberdeenshire and Moray; Angus; Clackmannan; Falkirk and Stirling; Dumfries and Galloway; Fife; Highland; Perth and Kinross and SPT.

Previously elderly passengers benefiting from free concessionary travel were unable to reserve seats in advance of travel.

The new scheme will now allow concessionary cardholders to pre-book a seat for a cost of £1.50 per journey. The nominal charge will cover the administration costs incurred in making the booking.

The new scheme is part of Citylink’s commitment to customer service and goes beyond the requirements stipulated by local councils for concessionary travel.

Paul Murphy, Marketing Manager for Citylink, said: “We identified a need from concessionary fares passengers to be able to pre-book their seats and we have been working with both Age Concern and Help the Aged to devise a suitable way for them to be able to do this.

“We are confident that being able to pre-book will address the concerns of those who benefit from concessionary fares and ensure that they will continue to enjoy travelling with Citylink.”

Elizabeth Duncan of Help the Aged, commented: "We are fully behind any initiative that results in equality for older people, particularly when it also helps to combat isolation.

"Scottish Citylink's decision will make an enormous difference to those older people who have been unable, through no fault of their own apart from their age, to benefit from guaranteed travel to visit friends and family and make other essential trips."

Jess Barrow from Age Concern Scotland, said: "Being unable to book concessionary fares ahead caused a problem for many older people. The introduction of the administrative charge will help solve this problem. We welcome Scottish Citylink’s commitment to working with Age Concern Scotland to improve their service to older people."

Issued by the BIG partnership on behalf of Scottish Citylink.

For further information please contact:
Joanne Chalmers on 0141 333 9585.