Merseyside Community transport

County advice overview

Community transport in Merseyside helps to connect residents without access to conventional transport, and from isolated rural locations, with surrounding areas. 

The Merseylink Bus provides a dial-a-ride service for people who have problems accessing public transport. For example, if you live too far from a bus stop, find it difficult getting on and off public buses due to mobility, or there is no bus service nearby.

You will need to meet the eligibility criteria and apply for membership, which can be found on the Merseyside Travel website.

Key tips

It is important to plan your use of community transport in advance. Services are often run by volunteers and pre-booking is essential. You may wish to consider:

• Community transport providers are often in high demand, so it is best to book your journey several days in advance if you can.
• You may need to register with the service in advance of your first booking and a membership fee sometimes applies in addition to travel costs.
• At the time of booking, inform the provider of any mobility and accessibility needs you may have and which equipment you intend to travel with. 
• Some operators offer a discount or are even free with a valid bus pass, so it is worth obtaining one, if you are eligible, even if you never catch a regular bus.
• Not all Dial-A-Ride schemes can take you to hospital appointments or day care centres. These appointments can be arranged by your doctor, the hospital, social services, or you may be able to use a community car scheme.

Operators

The Merseylink Bus Service

A dial-a-ride service for people with mobility problems or difficulties, who cannot access ordinary public transport. Vehicles are accessible with low steps and are suitable for wheelchair users.

You are eligible for membership if you live in Merseyside and:

• Receive the Mobility or Care part of Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independent Payment
• Receive Attendance Allowance at the higher rate
• Are registered blind
• Receive War Disablement Pension
• Have a serious disease which is getting worse and is causing sight or movement problems.

Contact: 0151 330 1001 (Bookings) or 0151 330 1002 (Enquiries)

Further details can be found on the Merseyside Travel website.

Travel costs

Community transport costs can vary depending on the service provided. 

Many schemes are run by not-for-profit organisations and only charge based on their actual operating costs. So, the fare you pay will be competitive with public transport costs in most cases. Fares are much cheaper than taxis and there is sometimes a reduced rate for bus pass holders.

Check with the individual provider when booking your trip, or browse their website, to receive an estimate of costs.

Special assistance

Assistance is variable for each service. Information can be found on an operator’s website or by contacting them by telephone.

When booking any community transport in your area, be clear about your mobility requirements and check in advance that the service is able to accommodate your mobility equipment.

Travelling with mobility equipment

Check with the individual community transport scheme, regarding travelling with mobility equipment. Services vary depending on the type and size of equipment that can be carried, due to space.  

Most minibuses are wheelchair accessible, although may have limited capacity for wheelchairs. 

Voluntary car schemes often require passengers to be able to transfer independently. Some can stow foldable wheelchairs and aids.