People with ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions may be entitled to one-third off train tickets following changes to disabled railcard eligibility criteria. The qualifying rules were broadened at the end of September to include a wider range of conditions, with applications assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Expanded eligibility for neurodivergent conditions
Among the newly included conditions are neurodivergent diagnoses such as ADHD, in a move Labour claims will "usher in a new era of more accessible, affordable and inclusive rail travel". The expansion is designed to cover people who have a "long-term impairment, health condition or neurodivergence that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months and significantly affects their ability to use rail services".
Alison Griffiths, shadow parliamentary under-secretary for transport, criticised the move, arguing that rail discounts should be restricted to "people with genuine, serious disabilities". Speaking to the Telegraph, Griffiths said: "Taxpayers should not be expected to fork out for people with low-level mental health conditions, some of whom already receive taxpayer-funded PIP."
Record number of cardholders
The number of disabled railcard holders reached a record high of 450,000 this year, up from fewer than 200,000 in 2016, according to figures from the Office of Rail and Road. Rail minister Lord Hendy praised the broadened eligibility as a "railcard revolution" earlier this year, stating the initiative will "help thousands more people access cheaper rail travel, helping disabled people travel with confidence."
He added: "The Government is determined to help ordinary people live better lives and this change is just one measure that will make it that bit easier for disabled people to get to education, employment, and stay in touch with friends and family."
Case-by-case assessment and costs
The Rail Delivery Group, which oversees and issues railcards, urged anyone who believes they might meet the requirements to submit an application. A spokesperson explained: "There is no list of neurodivergent or degenerative conditions that automatically qualify. Instead, applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, recognising that experience and support needs can vary considerably between individuals."
This represents the programme's second widening this year, with Blue Badge holders becoming eligible following amendments in the spring. Eligibility was also broadened in March to include people who possess a disabled person's bus pass, cannot drive for medical reasons, and are without speech. The railcard, which grants both the cardholder and an adult travelling companion one-third off most train tickets nationwide, costs £20 for one year or £54 for three years. The Rail Delivery Group calculates that it saves cardholders approximately £126 each year.
