Free bus pass eligibility set to change – six other freebies available for over 60s | Personal Finance | Finance
Many have voiced their concerns over the potential axing of free bus passes for those above the age of 60 but under the state pension age. However, discounts, savings and other freebies are still available to these vulnerable groups.
The free bus pass for over 60s in England is due to increase its eligibility age to that of the minimum pension age.
In the midst of the cost of living crunch, and with an abysmal benefits increase due in April, this change could be the financial downfall for many.
However, there are other freebies available to help, and fully utilising every possible option could see more households being able to ride out the economic wave.
Alongside these freebies, many individual businesses and companies provide discounts or free items for the elderly which over 60s should keep a keen eye on.
Trains
Getting around can become more difficult as one gets older and with the free bus pass change many fear they simply won’t be able to afford the transport they need.
Senior Railcards offer over 60s a discount of one third off their rail fares along with a host of other potential savings interlinked with the Railcard.
For example, Tesco Clubcard holders can use their points towards buying a one year Railcard for £15 instead of £30.
Anyone can apply for a Senior Railcard up to 14 days before they turn 60, and it can be delivered immediately through the digital Railcard option.
Boots point
The Boots Advantage Card scheme is already well known, providing points for every purchase which shoppers can then use directly on a purchase, essentially giving them free money.
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However, this deal is doubled down on for over 60s as they can claim double the amount of points on any purchase they make at Boots.
Over 60s can get a Boots Advantage Card and claim the extra discount by joining the Over 60s Reward scheme.
Movies
Cinemas have grown increasingly expensive but nothing can quite compare with sitting in the cinema with a bag of popcorn.
Over 60s can get this feeling for less as some cinema businesses provide discounts specifically for them.
Odeon, for example, has the Silver Cinema Club which provides discounts such as a series of screenings available for £3.50 across the country with free tea, coffee and biscuits before the movie starts.
Haircuts
Depending where one is in the country, haircuts can either be a nonchalant expense or a bank-breaking bill.
Most barbers and hairdressers offer reduced rates for pensioners while some even have dedicated days for older clients.
Over 60s can easily research online for the barbers and salons that will give them a financial break.
Football
Clubs across the country provide concession tickets for older people.
Although the age requirement for these concessions may differ from club to club, it is worth over 60s checking if their favourite team provides this.
Some clubs may even provide special senior prices at certain times during the season or discounts on food and drink at the local stadium.
Specsavers
Getting older can sometimes come with health conditions or illnesses, and although many services are provided by free through the NHS, the aspects that do require payment might be too much.
To help with this cost, Specsavers offers 20 percent off glasses and lenses including scratch-resistant lens treatment for over 60s so long as their glasses of choice are from the £69 or above range.
