Military veterans of every generation will soon benefit from
cut-price rail travel, Transport Secretary announced today, as he presented Captain Sir Tom
Moore with the very first Veteran Railcard.
Aimed at supporting veterans’ post-service, the newly unveiled
Railcard will provide up to a third off all peak and off-peak
fares, as well as discounted travel for adult companions and
children. It forms part of the Government’s commitment to make
this country the best place to be a veteran, helping repay the
debt we all owe to those who have served.
At his home in Bedfordshire Captain Tom Moore, who served in
World War II and won the nation’s hearts with his incredible
fundraising efforts, was presented with the very first card.
The card pays tribute to the Royal Navy, RAF and Army, using
the colours featured on the Veterans flag. An estimated 830,000
veterans, who are not eligible for existing railcards, will now
be able to get up to a third off rail travel from 5 November
2020.
The new card will be on sale at an introductory price of just
£21 until 31st March 2021.
, Transport Secretary, said:
“We have an eternal debt of honour to those who have served
our country, and this railcard is part of marking our
gratitude. For veterans looking to re-enter the world of work
and connect with friends and family, it will cut the cost of
travel to open up new opportunities. Delivering this
Manifesto promise will improve lives for veterans and their
families across the United Kingdom.
“I am also delighted to present Sir Captain Tom Moore with
the very first railcard. Through his service and his
inspirational fundraising, he has shown the selflessness and
indomitable spirit of all those who have served.”
Captain Sir Tom Moore, Captain Tom Foundation,
said:
“This is a wonderful occasion to accept the first Veterans
rail card.
“It is a rare opportunity to show thanks and gratitude to
Veterans and this rail card is a necessary recognition and
investment in Veterans, giving them the ability to re-connect
and combat loneliness, something that we promote and support
at The Captain Tom Foundation.”
The Rail Minister, also visited the Building Heroes centre in
Wandsworth, to meet with veterans undergoing a 6-week training
course in building and construction.
Targeted at teaching veterans' new skills and tackling
unemployment by delivering a seamless transition into a career
in the construction industry, Mr Heaton Harris discussed how
the railcard would support re-entering civilian life after
service.
Minister for Defence People and Veterans said:
"Providing discounted rail travel is a fantastic way to
underline the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have
served.
"For younger veterans, it will also help boost employment
prospects, allowing more flexibility in their travel to work
or job interviews."
Charles Byrne, Director General of The Royal British
Legion said:
“Every day our Armed Forces community provide an incredible
service in so many ways and it’s right their unique
contribution is recognised.
“We welcome the introduction of measures such as the new
Veterans Rail Card that will allow veterans and their
families to enjoy discounted rail fares.
“At a time when many veterans are facing significant
financial hardship, we hope as many as possible will be able
to enjoy the benefits this card will bring when travelling by
train.”
Help for Heroes CEO, Melanie Waters said:
“We are pleased that the Government will make good on its
promise to introduce a railcard for veterans and extend
discounted train travel to former service personnel in
England.
“The pandemic is having a lasting impact on veterans and
their families both financially and socially, and its
introduction will come at a welcome time.”
