Stagecoach (on the 685) require free pass users to state destination then the driver has to select this before the ticket is issued, whereas Arriva and Go North East (at least in Tynedale) automatically 'charge' through to the end destination of the route, which is quicker WRT ticket issue.
School children with passes have to state destination - I don't know whether they 'part pay' for their journeys.
I agree that a high percentage of 'pensioners' struggle with applying their pass to the reader but that isn't helped by different types of reader used by different operators (some are on top whilst others have a remote reader).
Then there's the problem with passes still in wallets that have other passes that confuse the reader.
I always extract my pass from my wallet (before I board the bus) but with the result that the image on the face is worn away - though the pass still works. Replacement passes cost £15 since NCC took over from Tynedale.
RE: Arriva North East - Latest