Applying for a TFWM Pension Travel Pass (West Midlands): Step-by-step instructions for Ukrainians

If you live in the West Midlands and have reached the UK retirement age, you are eligible for an Older Person's Concessionary Travel Pass, issued by Transport for West Midlands (TFWM). This pass entitles you to free travel on most buses, trams (Metro) and trains within the West Midlands network during off-peak hours.

Terms and Conditions for Obtaining a Travel Pass

To be eligible for a travel pass, you must meet two basic criteria:

Residence: You must be permanently resident in one of the seven West Midlands Council

Tax areas: Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall or Wolverhampton.

Age: You must have reached the current state pension age for women in the UK, which can be checked on the government website GOV.UK (currently 66).

Advantages of the TFWM Travel Pass

Ваш проїзний забезпечує безкоштовний проїзд:

Buses: Free on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. until the end of daily service, as well as all day on weekends and holidays.

Trams (Metro) and Trains: Free on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. and all day on weekends and public holidays within the West Midlands Blue Zone.

Step-by-step Instructions for Registration

The TFWM travel pass application process can be completed online or by post. It is recommended to use the online application, as it is usually faster.

Step 1: Preparing the Necessary Documents

To successfully apply, you will need copies (NOT originals) of the following documents. For Ukrainians who have arrived under the Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme or Ukraine Extension Scheme, it is particularly important to have documents confirming your place of residence and legal status.

1. Proof of Age

You will need one document confirming your date of birth:

• Passport (Ukrainian or foreign).

• Birth certificate.

• Photocard Driving Licence – can also be used as proof of residence.

• NHS medical card.

  
  

2. Proof of Address

One document dated no more than 3 months ago (unless otherwise specified) confirming that you live in the West Midlands:

• Utility bill – no more than 3 months old. Bank statement – no more than 3 months old.

• Council Tax bill – for the current tax year.

• Letter from the NHS or DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) – no more than 6 months old.

• Photocard Driving Licence – if it is not used as proof of age.

• A letter from your sponsor (for those who arrived under the Homes for Ukraine scheme), confirmed by the local council, may also be accepted if it contains your name and address, although it is always better to provide official utility or bank documents.

3. Passport Photo

You will need a colour passport-size photograph (e.g. 45 mm x 35 mm). For online applications, this will be a digital file (JPEG or PNG), for applications by post, a printed photograph.

Step 2: Submitting an Application

You can choose one of two ways to submit your application.

А. Online Application (Fastest Method)

Go to the TFWM website:

• Find the "Get an older person's travel pass" page on the Transport for West Midlands (TFWM) website.

• Start your application: Select the "Apply online" option.

• Fill in the form: Enter your personal details: Surname and first name. Address and postcode. Date of birth. Email address and telephone number. Name of the local council to which you pay Council Tax (or in whose area you live).

• Upload Documents and Photos: Upload digital copies (scans or clear photos) of your proof of age and residence, as well as your photo.

• Make sure all documents are clear and legible.

• Confirm and Submit: Check all details, confirm they are correct, and submit your application.

• Waiting: TFWM usually processes online applications faster.

B. Application by Post

• Download the form: Find and download the paper form "Older Person's Concessionary Travel Pass Application" from the TFWM website.

• Complete the form: Complete the form in block letters.

• Attach Photo: Glue or tape a photograph in the space provided. Be sure to write your name and postcode on the back of the photo.

• Make Copies: Make copies (NOT originals) of your proof of age and residence.

• Send: Send the completed form and copies of your documents to the address indicated on the form (usually ENCTS WMCA APPLICATIONS, PO BOX 212, WATERLOOVILLE, PO7 6ZN).

• Waiting: Processing applications by post may take longer.

Step 3: Obtaining a Travel Pass

After your application has been processed (this may take up to 20 working days), your travel pass will be sent to your home address by post.

Additional Tips for Ukrainians

Documentation issues: If you are having difficulty providing standard UK documentation (e.g. utility bills) to prove your address because you have recently arrived, try to provide a letter from your local council or other official document that confirms your address.

Contact TFWM directly by telephone to discuss acceptable alternative evidence: 0345 303 6760. Shared accommodation: If you live with your sponsor and do not have any bills in your name, a bank statement or official letter from the DWP (if you receive benefits) addressed to you are the best options. Language: All forms and communication are in English. If you need help with translation, ask your sponsor, a local volunteer group or your local Council for assistance.

Contact Information TFWM

If you have any questions about your application, you can contact the ticket support service: Telephone: 0345 303 6760 Website: Transport for West Midlands official portal

Obtaining this pass is an important step in ensuring your independence and accessibility to transport in the West Midlands.