From next Saturday, children aged five to 15 in England will be able to travel free on participating local buses throughout August, under a new rule overseen by Andy Burnham's government. The scheme, called 'Great British Summer Savings', offers unlimited journeys with no registration required and at no cost to families.
Background of the Scheme
The measure was originally announced by the previous Labour government under Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves, who confirmed VAT cuts for bus passengers. However, it will now be implemented by Mr Burnham's government. The free travel period runs from 1 to 31 August and covers participating local bus services across England.
Financial Impact on Families
According to the announcement, a family with two children who make a weekly return trip at a £1.50 child fare could save £27 in August. Michelle Ovens, CBE, CEO & Founder of Small Business Britain, said: "It’s fantastic to see the Chancellor’s commitment to additional funds for the free fares scheme. Giving children across the country the opportunity to travel freely during the summer holidays is vital in broadening aspirations, building life experiences, and encouraging young people to envision a future without boundaries."
Support from Campaign Groups
Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: "This is a welcome move to help more families to get out and about by bus this summer and highlights the importance of affordable public transport in easing cost-of-living pressures on hard-pressed households. Investing in affordable, reliable bus services is one of the most cost-effective ways of improving people’s quality of life and tackling rising energy costs year-round."
Lydia Horbury, CEO of passenger champions Bus Users UK, added: "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. 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. We hope this not only supports communities over the summer but also inspires lasting confidence in public transport and encourages the next generation to see buses as an easy and sustainable way to travel."
