Priority seat cards

03 September 2014

Several train companies now issue priority seat cards to passengers with a proven medical need. You should apply to the relevant train company for a card if you think that you are entitled. Fuller details will be given in each company’s Accessible Travel Policy.

No charge is made to issue priority seat cards.

These cards enable you to demonstrate your need without having to explain your disability and need to sit down to strangers. The card is especially useful if you have a non-visible disability and if the train has no on-board staff.

Again, it is not a fool-proof guarantee that other passengers will stand to let you sit down if all seats are occupied, but does simplify the task of explanation and entitlement. If you hold a priority seat card you must still buy a valid ticket. A priority seat card does not entitle you to a reduced fare; you need a separate Railcard for that purpose.