Scotland Makes Companion Rail Travel Free Permanently

Scotland makes free companion rail travel permanent for 8,000 visually impaired passengers

Scotland Makes Free Companion Rail Travel Permanent

Blind and partially sighted passengers across Scotland can now bring a companion on train journeys at no extra cost after the Scottish Government made a pilot program permanent April 1. The change affects approximately 8,000 holders of Eye +1 National Entitlement Cards who use ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper services. Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the pilot demonstrated the profound impact of affordable, accessible rail travel for visually impaired riders.

Trial Shows Strong Demand for Accessibility

The year-long pilot revealed overwhelming support for companion travel among eligible passengers. During the trial, 84% of cardholders who knew about the scheme used the free companion benefit, according to government data. More than 95% of users reported improvements in independence, mobility, and confidence when travelling. Nearly nine in ten passengers said the program changed how they use rail services, with many taking more journeys and visiting new places they hadn't accessed before.

Policy Removes Financial Barrier

The permanent scheme eliminates what advocacy groups called an unfair financial burden on visually impaired travellers. Previously, passengers had to purchase an additional ticket for companions they needed to travel safely, effectively doubling their rail costs. Charities including Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans campaigned for the change, arguing that many blind and partially sighted people require assistance navigating stations, platforms, and trains. The initiative applies to all ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper routes throughout Scotland.

Scheme Took Effect April 1

The transition from pilot to permanent program occurred April 1, 2026, officials confirmed. The Scottish Government didn't specify whether additional funding was allocated for the permanent scheme or how costs would be distributed between the government and rail operators. Hyslop said the policy aims to open up greater access to work, education, and communities for eligible passengers.

Cardholders Can Plan Journeys with Confidence

Eye +1 cardholders can now plan rail trips knowing their companion travels free on all qualifying services. The permanent status provides certainty for passengers who rely on assistance for safe travel, officials said. Riders can check real-time schedules and plan accessible journeys using Moovit, which provides trip planning and service updates for ScotRail and other transit systems across Scotland.