The Labour government has confirmed a new free bus pass rule for children in England, taking effect from August 1. Chancellor Rachel Reeves outlined the measure as part of the cost of living package, aimed at shielding UK households from macroeconomic pressures such as the Iran war.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, May 21, Ms Reeves stated that children aged five to 15 in England will be able to travel free on local bus services throughout August. This initiative is designed to make it easier and more affordable for families to get out and about during the summer holidays.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented: "This summer we're cutting the cost of a day out together - free bus travel for children aged five to 15 in England, and VAT slashed on a wide range of kids' attractions - so families can afford more time together."
Transport Secretary's statement
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "Free bus travel for every child in August means parents can plan days out, visit loved ones and make the most of the holidays without the added financial pressure."
She added: "We've already seen what's possible - in the West of England, the Mayor's free travel scheme is making a real difference, particularly for young people in the most deprived communities. That's exactly the kind of impact we want to deliver for families right across England this summer."
Ms Alexander highlighted that this builds on existing work to improve bus services, including the £3 bus fare cap, the Bus Services Act, a £3 billion investment in local services, and frozen rail fares for the first time in 30 years.
Details of the scheme
Free bus travel for children will run from August 1 to August 31 and covers participating local bus services across England. The scheme could save a family with two children who make a weekly return trip at a £1.50 child fare £27 in August.
Lydia Horbury, CEO of passenger champions Bus Users UK, welcomed the initiative: "Making bus travel free for children throughout August is a hugely welcome step that will help families, encourage greater use of public transport and give young people more independence and opportunity over the summer holidays."
She continued: "For many households, even small savings can make a real difference, and this initiative removes both cost and complexity by making travel simpler and more accessible. It is also a wonderful opportunity for more families to experience the convenience and value of local bus services first hand."
Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said: "Buses are the most used form of public transport, essential in connecting people to opportunities. Building on the successful fares offers of many of our member transport authorities, Kids Go Free is a welcome and timely intervention – helping to make public transport more affordable over the summer holidays, and supporting families and young people to get to where they want to go."
