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Accessible transport (Nexus TaxiCard scheme)
Nexus provides an accessible travel service in Newcastle upon Tyne called TaxiCard. The TaxiCard scheme is for those who have a disability or impairment that means using public transport is difficult.
You will automatically qualify for the TaxiCard scheme if you are:
- in receipt of the High Rate Mobility component of Disability Living Allowance
- in receipt of Higher Rate Attendance Allowance
- registered as severely visually impaired or blind
If you do not qualify for any of the above, but think you are mobility impaired, your application will be assessed on an individual basis. The application form explains this more fully.
The TaxiCard is a smartcard which is the same size as a credit card. You use it to pay for part of your journeys by taxi. There are two opportunities each year to join the TaxiCard scheme: in March and in September.
To register as a member of the TaxiCard scheme you will need to complete an application form. You can request a form by contacting the TaxiCard team using the details given below. You will then receive a letter letting you know whether your application has been successful.
To use the TaxiCard scheme you need to telephone one of the approved taxi and private hire operators directly to book your journey. These will be listed in the TaxiCard User Handbook that you will receive when you get your TaxiCard. You'll be able to book journeys as far in advance as you want to, or just before you travel, as long as the taxi company has a car available. You will be able to make journeys to wherever you want to go, including to hospital appointments.
When you arrive at your destination, you will give the driver your TaxiCard. They will put it into a machine which will deduct the correct amount of money for your journey from your card. The Ready Reckoner in your TaxiCard User Handbook makes this clear. You’ll be able to check the amount left on your TaxiCard when you’re in the taxi too.
For further information, contact the TaxiCard team using the details given below, or visit the Nexus website.
Contact Information
TaxiCard
Nexus House, St James' Boulevard, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4AX.
Telephone : 0191 203 3460.
Email : access@nexus.org.uk
Article last updated December 28, 2011 8:47 pm
