I am using public transport and worried about costs

If you’re taking public transport everyday the cost can add up, especially if you’re travelling a long way. We know that if you live in more remote areas of Scotland, such as the Highlands, this can be particularly challenging.

Find out more below or take a step back to explore other travel and parking issues.

Young Patients Family Fund

The Young Patients Family Fund is available if you normally live in Scotland and if you are the parent or carer of a baby in neonatal care. It can help help with the costs of travel and food while your baby is in hospital.

You can make a claim as soon as your baby is admitted to the neonatal unit, and you can claim for costs from your time on the unit up to 3 months after your baby is discharged.

The fund is available for all families with anyone under 18 in hospital and has replaced the Neonatal Expenses Fund.

How else can I save money on public transport?

It’s often cheaper to travel outside of peak hours, so if you can time your journey to be earlier or later than rush hour you might save some money.

There are 8 different railcards available in Scotland, depending on your age, situation and who you are travelling with. These can save you money if you are taking the train regularly. You can find out more about discounted rail travel by taking a look at the links below.

If you are unemployed and get Jobseekers Allowance or Universal Credit, you may be able to apply for a free Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount card. This card gives you 50% off some rail and bus travel. You can contact your nearest Jobcentre to find out more about the card, what travel discounts are available, and how to apply.

Travelling by bus for some of part of your journey might be a cheaper option. You can plan your bus journey on the Traveline Scotland website.

It can be tricky to work out which option is best for you. If you would like to talk to someone to help you, you can get in touch with us via email or you can book a video call.

Other ways to save costs on public transport

You might have a family member or friend who could give you a lift. For some people this might be someone from their local community or faith group. We understand that it can be difficult to ask for this help, but often people want to support you but don’t know what is most useful. You might find people are happy to do this for you.

If you live close enough to the hospital you could consider walking. It’s a personal choice whether it would help, but walking can be very beneficial both for physical and mental health.

Hospital accommodation

You might be able to reduce travel costs by staying at the hospital.

Ask any of the staff or volunteers about free hospital accommodation for parents of babies who are staying on the neonatal unit - they will be used to these types of questions. Some hospitals have rooms or accommodation available for parents.

Do you want help with something else?