Croydon Council is proposing to close its discretionary Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass scheme to new applicants, in a budget move aimed at saving £140,000 over two years.
The local-authority scheme currently provides free travel across London for disabled residents who receive local social care support but fail to meet the statutory criteria for a standard Freedom Pass.
Under the proposals, no new discretionary passes would be issued — but existing pass holders would keep their travel privileges. The change would only affect future applicants.
The proposal is part of the council’s latest round of budget measures, as local authorities across the capital hunt for savings to balance their books.
Disability campaigners and local residents have criticised the move, warning that it would hit some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents — people who rely on the pass to get to medical appointments, work and social activities.
The discretionary scheme exists precisely for those who fall through the cracks of the national criteria: people whose disabilities or health conditions mean they need free travel, but who do not qualify under the strict statutory rules.
Closing the door to new applicants would, campaigners argue, create a two-tier system — with current holders protected but future residents left without support.
The council will need to consult before making a final decision, and the proposal is likely to face significant opposition from disability groups.
It is the latest sign of the financial pressure facing London boroughs. Westminster Council is cutting 520 jobs to bridge a £160m funding gap, while Lambeth has been forced to rethink its £250m estates programme as redevelopment no longer stacks up.
For disabled residents in Croydon who depend on the scheme, the coming consultation will be watched closely.
