ESA Query

Mark_health

My friend was made redundant. He is on Contribution ESA since May 2026. He is awaiting his Medical Assessment. He is getting better now and been able to apply for few roles and has been able to secure 2 interviews. He came across the below and wants to apply for the below Travel Discount Card.

https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel/jobcentre-plus-travel-discount

He spoke to his Work Coach on Friday. However his Work Coach said they is another card which is half price for buses only, which he can issue. He said the above Travel card (which is valid for Buses, Tubes and Trams etc), can only be granted if you are starting work. He stated that he enquired for another applicant who was on Job Seeker’s Allowance (Contribution based), But DWP Finance Team declined it and said, it can be granted only if the applicant starts work.

Is the above correct? Has anyone come across this before? Or is my friend being denied unfairly?

WhatThe

Hi @Mark_health welcome to Scope 🙂

Your friend qualified after 13 weeks. Download an application form for a Bus & Tram Discount photocard, fill it in, take it to be stamped at JCP then to a Post Office. His card will arrive by post.

(😠)

Mary_Scope

Hi @Mark_health and a warm welcome to the community from me!

I see WhatThe has already answered your question and gave some wonderful advice so I won't add anything else today but it's lovely to see you and I hope you enjoy your time on the community😊