Travel Resources
Disabled bus passes
If you have a disability, you may qualify for a free bus pass. This allows you to travel free in Staffordshire at any time, and across England between 9:30am and 11pm.
Check out the eligibility criteria here: FAQs - Staffordshire County Council
How do I apply for a Disabled Bus Pass?
You can apply for a bus pass online or in person.
- Apply online: Online Bus Pass
- Apply in person at a Staffordshire County Council library: Find your nearest library. You can Watch Lachlan apply for a disabled bus pass at his local library
For more information and to find out which documents you need, visit:
Companion pass
Anyone eligible for a bus pass who cannot travel alone may also be able to get a companion pass. This allows a carer to travel free within Staffordshire.
Apply online: Frequently asked questions - bus passes
Sensory registration
People who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, partially sighted or deafblind can register with the Staffordshire Cares (Countywide Sensory Team).
Registration will help you access Concessionary Bus Passes, Sensory Registration Certificates and appropriate support and information.
For more information:
- Visit: Learning disabilities, autism and sensory support
- Call: 0300 111 8010
The team will help you through the registration process and help you access the right support.
Discounted rail travel
You may be eligible for a Disabled Person’s Railcard, which gives one-third off most rail fares.
If you travel without a railcard (for example, if you are a wheelchair user or registered visually impaired), you may still be eligible for discounted travel.
Find out more: Transport concession schemes | Transport for All.
The Sunflower Scheme
The Sunflower Scheme formally known as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower allows people with non-visible disabilities to discreetly signal that they may need extra time, assistance, or understanding in public spaces.
The scheme aims to "make the invisible visible" by offering a subtle, non-stigmatising way for individuals to communicate their needs. Hidden disabilities can include autism, chronic pain, anxiety, hearing loss, diabetes or neurological conditions. These may not be outwardly visible but can affect day-to-day activities.
Wearing the sunflower helps reduce misunderstandings, supports more positive interactions, and encourages organisations to adopt more empathetic, inclusive practices through staff training and awareness. More than just a lanyard, the scheme is a broader movement to foster patience, recognition, and respect for those whose disabilities are not immediately seen.
For more information visit: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Travel assistance cards
Staffordshire County Council have collaborated with disability groups across the county to design travel assistance cards.
They allow residents to show a card to the driver and other members of staff, as a way of discreetly asking for a little extra help - if you’d rather not ask them out loud.
The cards can be
- printed at home
- saved as a screenshot on your phone
- collected from any of our libraries
Here Lisa, from our Transport Team, explains what travel assistance cards are and how they can be used:
Download the Travel assistance cards:
Find out more: Travel assistance cards
Community transport
Community transport in Staffordshire is a local, not‑for‑profit service that helps people get to the places they need to go if they find it difficult to use regular public transport.
These schemes often include
- wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- volunteer drivers
- dial-a-ride services
They are designed to help individuals reach essential destinations such as medical appointments, shops, and social activities, and can also be booked for recreational trips (check individual criteria for the schemes)
Many services operate across Staffordshire and offer travel options, making journeys more inclusive and supportive.
Staffordshire Connects | Listings in Community transport
Volunteer buddies
Feeling isolated or anxious about joining community activities? The Volunteer Buddy Programme is here to help!
Our friendly volunteers offer short-term support for people who already travel independently but need extra help with route planning or timetables, building confidence to reach groups or volunteer placements.
Currently available in
- Cannock Chase
- South Staffordshire
- Lichfield
- East Staffordshire
- Stafford
- Tamworth
- Newcastle-under-Lyme
- Staffordshire Moorlands
For more information or to register your interest email volunteerbuddies@supportstaffordshire.org.uk
