The Scottish ADHD Coalition is celebrating today at the massive equalisation of mental health and physical health in treatment that has been recognised by all 28 train operating companies in the UK, from Scotrail and Avanti in the north through to Thameslink and Great Western in the south, from Thurso to Penzance.
As of today, 1st March 2026, the Disabled Persons Railcard has been expanded to include anyone unable to drive on medical grounds, as well as anyone holding a disabled persons bus pass in Scotland, Wales and England. This potentially benefits at least 600,000 disabled people according to figures by LeaseLoco, based on the number of drivers who had their driving licenses revoked on medical grounds over the last 10 years. In reality, the number is likely to be far higher due to the number of people that are not able to get a driving license in the first place.
Other groups who are eligible include those who have a Blue Badge or are in receipt of Armed Forces Compensation Scheme Benefits.
“This is a massive win for many of those with ADHD and dyspraxia”, said Paul Ginsberg of the Scottish ADHD Coalition, who has lobbied for this change. “Some who have ADHD are actually more cautious drivers, but for others it is not suitable due to the necessary attention requirements. For dyspraxia, usually the condition means that extended hours are required to learn the coordination skills but, again, for some it means that driving is not advisable. This move by the train operating companies helps level the playing field.”
Whilst rail travel is useful, if you are going on a long distance journey the only affordable way to do it is to book a long way in advance. With the 1/3 discount offered by the Disabled Persons Railcard, this removes some of the disadvantage and puts ADHDers on a more equal footing with car drivers in terms of overall cost and flexibility.
We are particularly grateful that the requirement is a simple letter from a GP or other suitably qualified health professional to state “This person cannot [currently] drive on medical grounds” – no long forms, which would add further burden to the NHS. The letter must have been written in the last two years.
We are also looking forward to September this year, when the scheme further opens up to those with other neurodivergent conditions such as autism, where they don’t already qualify under the “medically unable to drive” grounds, and we look forward to seeing what the criteria for that will be.
Applications are now open for the railcard, which costs £20 for one year, or £54 for three years.