First Capital Connect and upgrade to get a seat during rush hour

[Lotta123]

Hello,

I'm trying to sort out a seat upgrade on First Capital Connect and wonder if anybody can help me?

I sent in a copy of my NHS Prescription Charge Certificate Maternity Exemption card. This is referred to as the certificate in the letter I received.

First Capital Connect is saying I have to give them a MAT B1 (which I get at next midwife appointment in a month) or FP92.

My surgery is saying they don't issue FP92s for expectant mums. Am going to ring the midwife.

Just wonder if anybody knows how I can get hold of a FP92.

Thanks.

Here's the info from the FCC site:

"Expectant mothers can get a complimentary upgrade pass for use in First Class accommodation on First Capital Connect Trains' services.

The pass is only valid should no seats be available in Standard Class accommodation. The pass is valid until 3 weeks after the expected due date of your baby.

To obtain a pass the following information must be supplied: A copy of the FP92 form from the Family Health Services Authority or a MATB1, A copy of current Season Ticket ( Monthly, Period or Annual Season Ticket), a copy of the photocard, Daytime telephone number.

This information should be sent to: Customer Relations Department, Freepost RRBR-REEJ-KTKY, First Capital Connect Customer Relations Department, PO Box 443 PLYMOUTH, PL4 6WP."

It sounds like they're basically saying they don't offer this service before 25 weeks pregnant (when you can get the extra forms like MAT B1).

Honestly - I had one of these from South West Trains and I think I used it ONCE in 9 months of commuting. And once the train was full even in first class so I just sat on the floor !

I used to commute on First Capital Connect when pregnant. You send them your MATB1 plus copy of your season ticket etc. (as in OP) and they send you a pass allowing you to sit in first class if no seats in standard.

BUT you don't get your MATB1 until 20 weeks or whenever it is. My midwife told me they were battling with them over this, as women can feel sick/faint/whatever earlier than that but so far, no dice.

I did sit in first class a couple of times prior to getting the pass and the only time I was questioned on it, I showed him my maternity prescription card as it was the only thing I had to prove I was preggers. He was fine about it. It would be a brave ticket collector who forced a pregnant woman to stand, no?

I keep being sick on the train on the way to work. My midwife gave me my MAT B1 early purely so I can get my upgrade (would otherwise have got it at 25 weeks). Maybe worth asking if you can do the same?

I was 8 months pregnant on a FCC train, standing in a First Class carriage due to lack of space. The train was shaking all over the place, so someone gave me their seat. An inspector got on, and then fined me for not having a first class ticket. Complained to FCC Head Office and scarcely an apology. As I worked 4 days a week I didn't get a season ticket and they don't give the upgrade to non season ticket holders. They would rather I fell over on one of their trains!