Robert Eriksohn

Email:

[email address]

Dear Mr Eriksohn,

RE: FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUEST

Thank you for your email dated 30^th January, 2009.

I have reviewed your request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, and my response is as follows:

1. Does your authority provide concessionary travel passes to those individuals registered with their local Social Services department as disabled on the grounds of being a mental health user or survivor?

There are various criteria under the national scheme which would allow for such circumstances, other situations would be a letter of support from the applicants GP

2. If your authority does have such arrangements why was the decision taken to extend the scheme in this way and what arrangements are in place?

We are following national guidelines.

3. If your authority does not have such arrangements does your authority have some other arrangement beyond the statuary minimum to provide passes to those with mental health issues?

Not applicable.

4. If your authority does not have such arrangements why was the decision taken not to extend the scheme in this way and has consideration been given to extending the scheme in this way in the future?

Not applicable.

5. Would it be possible to provide copies of any relevant policy documents you may have?

For information please find attached Disabled Application Form and Guidance Notes for LA's. These are also on the NoWcard website www.nowcard.org.

Right to Review

If you wish to have this decision reviewed please write to the Executive Director - Business outlining the points of your review.

If you are still not satisfied with the Council's decision following any review you may appeal the Council's decision to the Information Commissioners Officer, Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire. SK9 5AF.

If you wish to discuss this matter further please do not hesitate to contact me directly on 01706 252438.

Yours sincerely,

Clare Birtwistle,

Acting Assistant Head of Legal.

BUSINESS DIRECTORATE

P. O. Box 74, Kingfisher Business Centre, Futures Park, Bacup. OL13 0WU

This matter is being dealt with by:
Name: Susan Pickup

Telephone: 01706 252425

Fax: 01706 873577

Email: susanpickup@rossendalebc.gov.uk

Our reference: EC/FOI/418

Date: 17^th February, 2009