Error causes freedom passes to stop working

Elderly and disabled people in Tower Hamlets have seen their freedom passes stop working - weeks before they are actually due to expire.

An error has seen some people’s passes rendered unusable in the last few days, even though they are not set to run out until the end of March.

It has meant that freedom pass users are not aware that their card has stopped working until they try to use public transport.

One woman told the Advertiser that she realised her aunt’s pass had stopped working on Sunday as they attempted to board a bus to the hospital for an appointment, and has not worked since.

The scheme, run by London Councils, offer Londoners aged 60 and over or with a disability the opportunity to travel for free on buses, Tube, DLR and train services.

A joint statement from Tower Hamlets Council and London Councils said: “There have been some issues with the disabled persons freedom pass renewal process in Newham and Tower Hamlets that have resulted in some passes being deactivated.

“If you have found that your pass is no longer working and you believe that you are still eligible please contact your borough to advise you on the appropriate steps.

“London Councils is supporting the boroughs affected to minimise any disruption caused.”