West Sussex buses will serve older people and vulnerable

Coronavirus

West Sussex County Council says it work with bus companies to ensure services are provided during coronavirus outbreak.

Roger Elkins, cabinet member for highways and infrastructure, said: “To try to help during the coronavirus outbreak, pensioners and vulnerable people with West Sussex County Council bus passes can now use them earlier on weekdays. This is so they can take advantage of some supermarkets’ first hour of trading being dedicated to older and vulnerable shoppers.

“From now, and for the duration of the outbreak, residents can use their passes prior to 9.30am on weekdays. They could already use them at any time on weekends and public holidays.”

Bus pass holders are being urged to follow government guidance on social distancing when travelling on public transport.

Following the announcement that schools will be closing to all except vulnerable pupils and the children of key workers, the council is also working to understand what transport is needed:

• Children travelling to school by public bus (either buying their own ticket or given a pass by the council): parents of children who will be continuing to attend next week should visit the bus operators’ websites to check the times and routes that will be available. 
• Children who travel on county council-provided transport (coach, minibus or taxi): the council’s suppliers have been asked to operate a full service from now until further notice. Due to possible staff shortages, some flexibility will no doubt be needed and appreciated.

Parents who do not accompany their children to school are being advised to have a contingency plan agreed with their child in case transport is late or does not arrive. This is particularly important at the moment.