Disability Action Transport Scheme

Customer Notices:

• 01.04.2020 DATS are offering the following services to both members and non-members during this very difficult COVID-19 period:
  • Collection and delivery of pre-paid shopping from any of the shops included in our operational area (Belfast / Bangor / Carrickfergus / Holywood / Newtownabbey / Newtownards)
  • Collection and delivery of prescriptions (arrangements to be made by Client/Doctor/Pharmacist prior to collection)
  • Transport for essential key workers who work at Belfast Hospitals.

  ALL SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE.

  To book please contact our office on 028 9029 7870 between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday.

  Please note that the service is being offered between 8am and 4pm and is subject to availability.

• In line with our GDPR policy we are updating our client database. If clients have not used the DATS service within the last 18 months their details will be removed. If you haven’t used the DATS service within the last 18 months but would like to remain on our database please email the team before Tuesday 31st March 2020. Email: [email protected]

• From 22 January 2020 we will be phasing out the 0845 608 5555 telephone number over the next six months. Please use our new number 028 9029 7870 to contact the DATS team.
  
  

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Do you have difficulty using public transport?

Here at Disability Action we recognise the various problems getting out and about when using public transport.  That is why we offer Disability Action Transport Scheme or DATS for short.  All of our vehicles are fully accessible and will allow you to travel within your local town.

One of our fully trained friendly drivers will collect you at home and bring you wherever you need to go within your travel zone – it can be for going to work, shopping, visiting friends and attending health related appointments – it is up to you.

Where can I travel?

DATS is a transport scheme that operates in and around large towns across Northern Ireland.  If you live in or close to one of these towns you can travel in and around this area – this is your travel zone.  When you become a member, you will be given more details on your travel zone.

What times can I use DATS?

Monday – Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday & Sunday: varies depending on area, contact your local provider for more information
Bank/Public Holidays: No service

How to book?

When you become a member you will be given a phone number to contact to make bookings for your trips.

You can book a trip up to seven days in advance.  Although members can make bookings on the same day they wish to travel, it is best to request a booking at least 48 hours in advance.

A member of our Booking Office team will give you a call to confirm your trip booking.

Booking office opening hours:

Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm
Saturday& Sundays: Booking lines closed
Bank/Public holidays: Booking lines closed

How much does it cost?

Single Trip: £2.50
Children Under 5: Free
Children 5-16: £1.25

NI Concessionary Fares Scheme is not available on DATS.

How to become a member?

Membership of DATS is free, you just need to complete an application form and meet the criteria to become a member.

Download a DATS membership form here or request a DATS membership form from a member of our transport team on 028 9029 7870 or email [email protected]

DATS is an interim service which will operate until such time as the Department for Infrastructure has considered how best to meet the transport needs for disabled people across Northern Ireland.  DATS is funded through grant assistance provided by the Department for Infrastructure.

Download our DATS Leafet here for more information on our Service.