More transport options

As a disabled or older person, there's a wide range of transport options available to help you get out and about, aside from public transport or your car.

Taxis

All licensed taxis are wheelchair accessible. The driver shouldn’t have the meter running while extending the ramp or helping you into the vehicle. Most taxis have a variety of additional aids for travellers, including: ramps; swivel seat; intermediate step; large coloured grab handles and induction loop.

Taxicard

You can book a taxi using your Taxicard (either by phone or online) and you can also hire a taxi on the street or from a rank if the taxi is displaying the roundel design. Find out more about Taxicards.

Remember: Taxicard journeys can be expensive if you travel long distances. Your Taxicard is best suited to short journeys in and around your local area.

Dial-a-Ride

If you're unable to use public transport due to having a permanent or long term disability you can use this free door-to-door mini-bus service run by Transport for London.

Once you're a member, you can book a ride up to two weeks in advance and at the latest by 16:00 the day before you want to travel.

Dial-a-ride takes more than 30,000 bookings each week, providing a vital mode of transport for many Londoners. 

Get out more: apply for Dial-a-Ride membership

Mobility mini-buses

Mobility mini-buses are 11 to 16 seater vehicles which have tail-lifts to carry wheelchairs and low steps and rails to make it easier for people to get on and off.

Mobility mini-buses are available to organisations who are members of Tower Hamlets Community Transport, a charity providing transport for the elderly and people with mobility impairment. Any community or voluntary group can apply for membership.

Find out more about Community Transport. 

Cycling

Cycling can be a useful means of transport as well as a fun way to exercise and socialise.

There are many different types of bikes these days and many more opportunities for people with disabilities to cycle. 

There has also been a lot of investment in the cycle infrastructure across London in recent years. See the cycle routes and maps available from TfL. 

Bikeworks run an 'all abilities' cycling club. Sessions take place opposite the Gunmakers Lane entrance to Victoria Park on alternate Saturday afternoons. Free one-to-one sessions outside of Club times are also available.

If you want to try cycling and enjoy freewheeling freedom:

Get in touch with Bikeworks