Taxicard Scheme Rolls Out

11.03.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 18th Sep 2007

A pilot scheme to give disabled and frail elderly people greater independence by offering them subsidised taxi services has been rolled out across Milton Keynes.

Taxicard was introduced in December to offer members of MK Plusbus (the community bus service) the chance to go out more regularly. The aim is to help them to go on one-off trips such as to the cinema or to attend a doctor's appointment which the Plusbus service can't easily provide. Taxicard is designed to meet the demand for extra trips in a flexible and cost-effective way.

During the trial, eight local taxi firms and 25 private licensed taxi drivers took part in the scheme that allowed members to use tokens as part-payment for fares. Following the success of the Council-run pilot, the scheme has now been rolled out city-wide to all the 1600 Plusbus members. Users will be issued with a card that carries an annual subsidy of £60 per person that can be used to subsidise any taxi fares over the first £3. More than 100 taxis in the scheme will carry a special card reader.

Liberal Democrat councillor Irene Henderson, cabinet member for adult social care, said: "Plusbus has proved to be a vital lifeline for older and disabled people in our community. We are now building on its success by giving them the chance to get out and about more so that they can lead more independent lives."

If you are a MK Plusbus member and wish to find out more about the Taxicard service run by the Council, ring (01908) 266950.