Local MSP for the Linlithgow Constituency, Fiona Hyslop, has announced, in her role as Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Transport, that free rail travel for visually impaired people and their companions will be made permanent.
From 1 April 2026, anyone with an Eye Plus One National Entitlement Card can now travel with a companion throughout Scotland at no extra cost.
Commenting Fiona said:
“After a successful year-long pilot, I was delighted to announce on 11th March that the Scottish Government are making free rail travel for visually impaired people and their companions free permanently from 1st April 2026.
“During the pilot we worked with Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans to gather feedback, and I was pleased to see more than 1,500 National Entitlement Card (NEC) holders took part with overwhelming positive feedback.
“This change will support around 8,000 visually impaired NEC holders who rely on ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper services.
“By making this scheme permanent the Scottish Government are opening up greater access to work, education, and communities which will strengthen independence and ensure Scotland’s railways are accessible for all users.”
ENDS