TaxiCard offers convenient and affordable transport for some people with restricted mobility.
What is TaxiCard?
It’s a smartcard, the same size as a credit card, and you will use it to pay for part of your journeys by taxi.
There are two opportunities to join the TaxiCard scheme - in March and September.
If you join in March, your TaxiCard will have £100 worth of fares on it when you receive it, which can be used between 28 March and 2 October 2011. You will then be sent a brand new TaxiCard, topped up to £125 for you to use between 3 October 2011 and 25 March 2012.
If you join in September, your TaxiCard will have £125 worth of taxi fares on it when you receive it, which can be used between 3 October and 25 March.
How much will I pay?
You can pay up to £3 (or half your taxi fare if the fare is less than £6) using your TaxiCard. You will then need to pay the rest of the fare yourself.
How do I register to become a member of the TaxiCard scheme?
You’ll need to complete a TaxiCard application form which are available from our TaxiCard team. Request one by calling 0191 20 20 777 or emailing access@nexus.org.uk.
Will I qualify?
You will automatically qualify for the scheme if you receive any of the following:
• High Rate Mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance
• Higher Rate Attendance Allowance
• Are registered as severely visually impaired or blind.
What if I don’t automatically qualify?
If you do not qualify for any of the above,but think you are mobility impaired, we will assess your application on an individual basis. The application form explains this more fully.
What happens next?
We’ll write to let you know whether your application has been successful. If it has, we’ll include details of how to join the TaxiCard scheme. This will just involve sending us a passport sized colour photo, and a cheque or postal order for £10 for the annual administration fee (£5 if you join in September).
How will I use my TaxiCard?
You’ll phone one of the approved taxi and private hire operators direct to book your journey. These will be listed in the TaxiCard User Handbook that you’ll receive when you get your TaxiCard. You’ll be able to book journeys as far in advance as you want 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 if you want to.
What do I do when I’m in the taxi?
When you arrive at your destination, give the driver your TaxiCard, and 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.
Who do I contact with any queries?
Call the TaxiCard team on:
0191 20 20 777
or email access@nexus.org.uk