Directory of Travel & Transport Resources – People First
Being able to get out and about in the local community, whether to catch up with friends, do the shopping, or do the kinds of things which interest us, is important for all of us and vital for our physical and mental well-being.
If you have a health problem or disability, or are becoming frailer as you get older, then getting out and about can be a challenge. But this does not mean that you are not entitled to lead an active life away from your home. And there are many ways in which you can overcome problems with mobility and other difficulties and continue to get out into the world around you.
This website has links to the different options available to help you get out and about, with information on accessible public transport, travel concessions, scooter and wheelchair hire schemes, parking, freedom passes and much more.
Website
www.peoplefirstinfo.org.ukWalking and avoiding main roads
Cycling and walking are termed ‘active transport’ in that they turn your transport needs into an opportunity to exercise. There is evidence that people are more likely to remain physically active if they cycle or walk for transport than if they go on exercise programs or depend on gym membership, because active transport embeds exercise as part of their daily routine.
Walking is the best way for people of all ages to become more active. It requires no equipment of expense and can be built into your everyday routine. You can start slowly and build up gently. If you can only walk for a couple of minutes and then need to rest, that’s OK. Where you start from isn’t important – it’s where you’re going that counts! Regular walking can reduce your risk of chronic disease and boost confidence, stamina and life expectancy.Walkwell
Walkwell are local short walks encouraging socialising and increased activity in Hammersmith & Fulham. The programme is very inclusive and would benefit the health of people with low fitness levels. Their walks have been developed to showcase points of historic or environmental interest and maps are available on their site.
Phone
07949 244 253
Email
sportsdevelopment@lbhf.gov.uk
Website
www.lbhf.gov.ukWalk It
This is an urban route planner that shows you walking routes in your area that avoid using main roads. Most air pollution in London comes from vehicles, and air quality is lowest by main roads, so by avoiding these routes you can help your health.
Website
www.walkit.comAgewell
The Agewell project offers classes to anyone over the age of 50 and some people under the age of 50 who have chronic conditions. They offer a range of classes, including rambles and guided walks.
Phone
0845 839 7912
07956 832 984
Website
www.lbhf.gov.ukCycling and learning to ride
Cycling and walking are termed ‘active transport’ in that they turn your transport needs into an opportunity to exercise. There is evidence that people are more likely to remain physically active if they cycle or walk for transport than if they go on exercise programs or depend on gym membership, because active transport embeds exercise as part of their daily routine.
Regular cycling can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, boost your mood and keep your weight under control. By reducing air pollution it even helps those who don’t cycle! There are a number of resources available to help you get started.Council Website
This has safety advice, links to cycle training and highlights the locations of planned safer ‘quietways’ for cyclists.
Website
www.lbhf.gov.uk
Cyclinic strategy for H&F
www.lbhf.gov.ukLondon Cycle Campaign
HF Cyclists is the local branch of this London-wide organization. They exist to encourage more people to cycle, improve conditions for cyclists and raise the profile of cycling primarily in the area of Hammersmith and Fulham but also beyond. They have maps of safe cycle routes, hold meetings and rides, and can keep you up to date with news and events.
Phone
020 7371 1290
07789 095 748
Email
info@hfcyclists.org.uk
Website
www.hfcyclists.org.ukDial-a-Ride
London Dial-a-Ride is a free door-to-door transport service for disabled people who can’t use buses, trains or the Tube. It uses mini buses which are specially designed to take wheelchairs for people with disabilities. Members of the scheme can use Dial-a-Ride services for all sorts of journeys, making it easier to go shopping, visit friends and attend doctor appointments.
Phone
0343 222 7777
Website
www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/dial-a-rideCommunity Transport – Ealing Community Transport
An accessible and affordable door-to-door minibus service for Ealing Residents who cannot access public transport due to age, disability, or poor health. Registration to use the service is completed over the phone. Passengers can use the PlusBus to access various services and facilities e.g. day centre, shopping, healthcare, and social and respite activities. Bookings can be taken up to three weeks in advance over the phone or via email. Drivers are friendly and fully trained.
Phone
020 8813 3210
Email
ealing@ectcharity.co.uk
Website
www.ectcharity.co.ukFreedom Pass
Freedom Passes for older people and those with disability are funded by your local council and give free travel on most public transport in London, 24 hours a day (after 9.30am on most National Rail services within the London area), including all day at weekends and on public holidays. These passes may also be used to travel on local bus services in the rest of England.
People First
This website gives details about eligibility and links to applications forms.
Website
www.peoplefirstinfo.org.ukFreedom Pass
This council website has further details, including what to do if a pass is lost or stolen.
Phone
0300 330 1433
Email
info@freedompass.org
Website
www.freedompass.orgPlusbus for Health (transport to and from GP appointments)
PlusBus for Health is a service offered by Ealing Community Transport (ECT) to transport people to and from GP surgeries. The service aims to reduce the number of GP house calls and no-shows at surgeries, and simultaneously improve the well-being of patients by providing the opportunity to leave their homes and increase social contact.
The service is available throughout the borough of Ealing (which includes Ealing, Hanwell, Acton, Northolt, Greenford, and Southall). If you think you might be eligible to use PlusBus for Health, ask the staff at your GP’s reception to book transport for you.
Phone
020 8813 3210
Email
plusbus@ectgroup.co.uk
Website
www.ectcharity.co.ukTaxicard
The London Taxicard Scheme provides subsidised transport in taxis and private hire vehicles (minicabs) for people with serious mobility or visual impairments, making it very difficult or impossible to use mainstream public transport such as buses and tubes. If you are eligible, you can use your Taxicard to make journeys in licensed London taxis and private hire vehicles. It can be used when shopping, visiting friends or doctors’ appointments. While you can use your Taxicard at any day or time, it is subject to taxi availability.
Phone
0207 934 9791
Website
www.londoncouncils.gov.ukBlue Badge Scheme (Disabled Parking)
The blue European parking badge allows people with severe walking difficulties to park close to places they wish to visit. The badge is personal to you and can be used in any vehicle in which you travel either as a driver or a passenger
Phone
020 8753 6681
Email
bluebadges@lbhf.gov.uk
Websites
www.lbhf.gov.uk
www.gov.ukShopping Service
Age UK offer an escorted door-to-door shopping service for people over 50 who could not otherwise do their own shopping. Their fully accessible minibus will collect you, take you to a local supermarket – we currently use Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda depending upon which area you live in – and bring you back to your home. The round trip costs £2.50 and includes a helpful, fully trained driver who can also help with heavy bags, and usually a volunteer escort to provide additional support.
Phone
020 7386 2651
Website
www.ageuk.org.uk