The EU's new Disability Card was introduced in Finland in June.

With the card, the holders can prove that they need assistance e.g., in public transport or at cultural and sports events.

Currently 125 operators grant benefits to Disability Card holders. In Joensuu, the disabled person's assistant travels free on local buses and Noutopoika transport services, provided that the Card carries the A mark.

The VR rail operator also accepts the card.

Pertti Virolainen, secretary of Joensuu's disabled persons' council, encourages private and public service providers to apply for Disability Card partnership.

– This would provide a marketing advantage, he says.

For advice on how to apply for the card and a list of benefits, go to www.vammaiskortti.fi/en/in-english.

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