Disabled bus pass holders in England will soon be able to travel free at any time of day, as Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed the removal of weekday restrictions that currently limit travel to between 9.30am and 11pm. The change, announced on Tuesday 18 August, will take effect from 1 April 2027.
What is changing for disabled bus pass holders?
Under current rules, disabled people's bus passes are only valid between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays. From 1 April 2027, these time restrictions will be scrapped, meaning pass holders can use local bus services free of charge at any time of day or night, seven days a week.
The government's press release explained the rationale: "A lack of affordable transport can be a major practical barrier to entering the workplace, and so this move will also help support disabled people who are able to work to take up jobs by removing an extra pressure."
Support for employment and welfare reform
The announcement links the change to broader welfare reforms. The government stated: "This new support comes alongside the government’s ongoing work to reform the welfare system, so people can get into work where they can."
It highlighted a £3.5 billion investment in tailored employment support aimed at helping disabled people and those with health conditions "to fulfil their full potential and stay in or return to work."
Broader bus improvements and fare cap
The release noted that buses are "the most used form of public transport across the country." It also pointed to the Prime Minister's decision to cap bus fares at £2 throughout 2027, which the government says will save millions of people a third on bus travel.
Additionally, under-16s have been able to travel for free on local buses this month, a move funded by the government to help families enjoy summer days out for less.
In recognition of the importance of buses to local communities, the government is giving local leaders more powers through the Bus Services Act, aiming to hand control back to communities for more reliable services that better serve their areas.
