Sutton leads the way in London for digital Freedom Pass renewals, but remaining residents urged to go online. Sutton Council is leading the way digitally – not only does the borough have one of the highest Freedom Pass renewals rates in London, but it is the only council to ditch paper forms. So far, more than 20,000 older people have reapplied for the free travel offer online themselves or with the help of library staff.

In total, around 79% of those with expiring Freedom Passes in Sutton have reapplied using the quick and easy online renewal process, instead of a paper form favoured in the rest of London. However, there are still more than 5,000 older people who need to renew their passes before the 31 January deadline. To continue travelling in and around London without cost, you must complete a quick and easy renewal process online or at the library, using the unique renewal number you should have received in the post.

Colin Stears, Chair of the Adult Social Services and Health Committee, said:

“Our fantastic online Freedom Pass renewal rate really goes to show that our libraries are at the centre of innovation in London. While other boroughs are still favouring the less efficient paper process, we are using our library service to lead the way digitally.The online renewal process is quicker than waiting for the bus and, if you don’t like computers, our friendly library staff are more than happy to help out, so please grab your letter and get renewing before it is too late. For more information or to find out if you are eligible for a Freedom Pass, go to the London Councils website. If you have not received your renewal letter including your unique renewal number, phone London Councils on 0300 330 1433.