Pinner residents are sharing their fears over potential cuts to a crucial free travel pass for residents suffering with severe mental health issues.
The Freedom Pass scheme launched in 1973 and has offered free travel to millions of elderly Londoners, as well as those with mental illnesses and disabilities. Harrow is the only London borough to have such a scheme.
However, in September this year, it was announced that the passes would no longer be issued. The final decision of whether to cancel the passes completely has not yet been made.
Finley Harnett, who narrowly missed out on becoming Pinner’s first Labour councillor last year and who asked a question about the proposals at a cabinet meeting in September, told Pinnernews: “Cutting new discretionary Freedom Passes will have a devastating impact on some of Pinner’s most vulnerable people.
“They tackle loneliness, support independence, and ensure fares aren’t a barrier to passholders making crucial appointments. Residents are overwhelmingly opposed and many local organisations and charities, including Mind in Harrow and Voluntary Action Harrow, have raised concerns.”
Finley is urging the council to address the issue in the final cabinet meeting of the year, set to take place on Tuesday, December 19.
He said: “It’s shameful that the council still hasn’t made a final decision, and still won’t commit to publishing the criteria by which a decision will be made. Pinner residents deserve better.
“The council should drop the plans and ensure that passes remain available to the small number of vulnerable people who depend on them.”
Harrow Council has been contacted for comment.
Photo credit: Finley Harnett – Harrow Council
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