The Hounslow Taxicard Scheme gives people who cannot travel on public transport, either because of blindness or permanent disability, subsidised rides in licensed black taxis. It allows you up to 120 trips per year to any destination as long as it is in the Greater London area. The scheme offers a 24 hour service, 365 days of the year.
Who is eligible?
To qualify you must live permanently in the London Borough of Hounslow and meet the criteria outlined below.
You may qualify automatically if you receive:
·The higher rate of mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance
·War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement or
·You are registered blind or partially sighted or have a BD8
You can also apply if your mobility is so restricted that you are unable to use public transport (a doctor's report is needed to confirm this). Temporary conditions, such as a broken leg for example, do not qualify.
How do I apply?
You can request an application for the Taxicard scheme from the Main Reception. You must include with the application form:
·Evidence of eligibility if you receive one of the allowances listed above or is you are a registered blind person (a photocopy will be acceptable);
·Proof of residence in London Borough of Hounslow. This must be a formal letter addressed to you such as a gas or electricity bill or an official document bearing your name and address such as a pension or other allowance book; and
·2 passport sized photographs of yourself.
Once you have completed the application form and collected the necessary information you must send the form by post to:
ALG TEC
Taxi Card
New Zealand House
80 Haymarket
London SW1Y 4TZ
If your application is successful your Taxicard will be sent to you directly by post along with a booklet outlining the scheme.
How much does it cost?
There is no membership fee for the scheme but you must provide 2 passport photos with your application. Hounslow Council subsidises your trip, however you must pay the first £1.50 of the journey and we will pay a further £10.30. There is a slightly higher subsidy for weekends and evenings. There is no restriction to the purpose or length of the trip.
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Contact details
Telephone: 020 8583 3073
E-mail: bluebadge@hounslow.gov.uk