I am writing this petition as someone personally affected by the eligibility rules of the Freedom Pass. At 68 years old, my life has been significantly altered due to health challenges, including a stroke and high blood pressure. Like many others, I am in close need of reliable and affordable transport, especially for crucial hospital appointments. As a resident of London, the cost of commuting via tube and overground trains is prohibitive on a low income, yet timely arrival at medical appointments is essential, as patients are turned away if late.

The Freedom Pass is a lifeline for elderly individuals relying on public transportation, yet its restrictions on overground train and tube usage marginalise those of us who are no longer able to work but still need to travel. It is simply unjust for people over the age of 66, particularly those grappling with health issues, to be denied complete access to this vital service.

Currently, the Freedom Pass allows free travel on buses, but does not extend to tubes and overground trains. This falls short for many elderly individuals who, like me, require these modes of transport for essential travel. According to a survey by Age UK, over 1.5 million senior citizens face transport challenges, and most find it difficult to finance regular travel.

This is not just a matter of convenience—it is a matter of necessity and equity. All Londoners, regardless of age or physical ability, should have the freedom to navigate our city without the burden of overwhelming travel costs. Expanding Freedom Pass benefits to cover tube and overground train travel would represent a small but significant change that would alleviate a huge burden for many.

I urge the local authorities and the Mayor of London to review these current restrictions. It's time to ensure that no senior citizen, particularly those with health issues, is excluded from the full benefits of the Freedom Pass due to financial constraints. Providing unrestricted access will significantly improve the quality of life for those who need it most.

Please sign this petition to help us convince those in power to grant over-66s with health challenges the full access to the Freedom Pass, ensuring they too can live with dignity and access the city freely and fairly.