Behind the scheme frequently asked questions

• Who pays for the scheme?
• How do bus operators get paid?
• Why do other areas get different concessions?
• How are my personal details used?

Who pays for the scheme?

We repay bus companies for all concessionary travel undertaken on local bus services starting within the city boundary. This includes trips taken by Plymouth and non-Plymouth residents.

The total cost of delivering concessionary travel in 2008/2009 is anticipated to be up to £5 million per year.

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How do bus operators get paid?

We repay bus companies direct for every concessionary travel trip taken. This reimbursement is a percentage of the commercial fare that would be paid in the absence of a concessionary scheme.

We are legally obliged to repay operators to ensure that they are no better or worse off through participating in a concessionary scheme and are have to repay any extra cost incurred in delivering a concessionary scheme (for example enhancements for frequency, capacity, wear and tear, fuel consumption etc).

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Why do other areas get different concessions?

Every local authority responsible for delivering concessionary fares has the ability to offer enhancements beyond the legal minimum. The increased costs of such an enhancement have to be considered.

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How are my personal details used?

Under the Data Protection Act 1998, the information and the photograph you provide with your application for a concessionary bus pass will be recorded by us and will be used to provided this service, to assist in the arrangement of other council services to you and to meet its legal obligations.

If you agree your contact details will be passed to bus companies operating within the council area so that they can supply you with details of their services.

If you require more information about the use of your personal details by the council please contact the Corporate Information Manager, Civic Centre, Plymouth PL1 2AA.

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