Bus pass support extended to allow older travellers to shop before 9.30am
The Isle of Wight Council is extending its support for elderly people during the COVID-19 crisis.
From next Monday 23 March bus passes for Island bus users who are over 65 will be valid before 9.30am, to help older travellers access supermarkets which have made available early shopping time slots for elderly people.
Councillor Ian Ward, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure & Transport said: “The Isle of Wight Council is extremely pleased to have reached agreement with our transport and health partners to extend our support for those residents with bus passes.
This will allow them to access the offer from retailers to use their shops early in the morning.”
It is very important that everyone on the Island observes the guidance provided by Public Health England about social distancing. This means avoiding all unnecessary travel and minimising social interaction between people.
Anyone over 70, with an underlying health condition or who is pregnant should avoid unnecessary travel and social interaction between people.
If you need assistance with foods or medicines, ask family, friends and neighbours to support you and use online services. It is important to speak to others and ask them to help you to make arrangements for the delivery of food, medicines and essential services and supplies, and look after your physical and mental health and wellbeing.
If you must make a journey to a shop or pharmacy, remember these important guidelines:
• stay at least 2 metres (3 steps) away from other people
• wash your hands often – with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• wash your hands before eating and after coughing or sneezing
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin and wash your hands