Purpose

Seek Cabinet Member Approval for the extension to the provision of concessionary bus passes to Ukrainian guests until 31 July 2024

Decision

The Cabinet Member for Health and Communities approved the allocation of £25,000 from the H4U core grant to extend the provision of concessionary bus passes for Ukrainian guests until 31 July 2024.

Reasons for the decision

Extending free concessionary bus travel will enable guests to continue to access a range of services in all areas of the county. This is of particular importance to those located in the more rural, isolated areas of the county who are not able to easily access services. This scheme is delivered in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council and the extension proposed would match that planned by Nottinghamshire County Council.

Alternative options considered

Do nothing.  Ukrainian guests will no longer benefit from free bus travel which would make accessing services, employment and education very difficult for the large numbers in the rural areas of the county. There may be an impact on health and wellbeing and feelings such as isolation could increase placing pressure on hosts to offer transport to guests.

The Council could offer funding, on a discretionary case by case basis, for applications by hosts in need of additional financial support.  This is mean households/guests getting to crisis point before being offered support.