ADHD sufferers now eligible for third off train fares

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 11:36 · Archive

People with ADHD can now get a third off train tickets under expanded disabled railcard eligibility rules.

People with ADHD can now apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard offering a third off train tickets for themselves and one adult companion. The eligibility criteria were expanded at the end of September to include neurodivergent conditions including ADHD, which affect people's ability to concentrate, control impulses or regulate energy levels.

According to ADHD UK, three million people in the UK have the condition. The railcard costs £20 for one year or £54 for three years, with the Rail Delivery Group estimating it saves travellers around £126 annually. The expansion covers people with long-term impairments or neurodivergence lasting at least 12 months that significantly affect their ability to use rail services.

Rail minister Lord Hendy hailed the scheme as a 'railcard revolution' that would 'help thousands more people access cheaper rail travel, helping disabled people travel with confidence'. The Rail Delivery Group stressed that the criteria require professional health evidence and detailed assessment, and that eligible individuals must experience significant disability-related barriers to rail travel.

The move has drawn criticism from some who argue taxpayers should not fund discounts for what they describe as low-level mental health conditions. Alison Griffiths, shadow parliamentary under-secretary for transport, told The Telegraph that rail discounts should be limited to 'people with genuine, serious disabilities', adding that 'taxpayers should not be expected to fork out for people with low-level mental health conditions, some of whom already receive taxpayer-funded PIP'.

The number of disabled railcard holders has increased significantly, reaching a record 450,000 this year compared with fewer than 200,000 in 2016 according to Office of Rail and Road data. The Rail Delivery Group expects numbers to rise further as more people become aware of the expanded eligibility.

How it is being reported

• Brits with ADHD can now apply to get a third off their train ticketsA major change for train travel has emerged, and it impacts three million people in the UK who have ADHD, as a discount railcard is now available, saving more than £100 annuallyThe Mirror · 30 Oct, 11:11
• People with 'hidden' conditions like ADHD can now get massive discounts on train tickets under new disabled railcard rules - but critics slam giveaway for 'low-level' disordersThe Disabled Persons Railcard (DPRC) expanded its criteria to include neurodivergence on the eligibility list - but critics say taxpayers will be left paying for 'low level' disorders.Daily Mail · 29 Oct, 19:43
• Andy Burnham gives people with ADHD a third off train tickets with disabled railcardThe new policy has already been slammed.Daily Express · 29 Oct, 18:29

In this story: Andy Burnham · Alison Griffiths · Lord Hendy · Rail Delivery Group · ADHD UK · Office of Rail and Road · United Kingdom

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