The push for extending free bus travel to people over the age of 60 in England has reached a new milestone, with growing support and political attention.
Currently, people in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland enjoy free bus travel from the age of 60, yet this benefit is not available across the entirety of England. Instead, local authorities must cover the costs, leaving many areas without access to the scheme.
A Petition for Change Gains Traction
A significant petition calling for free bus travel for over-60s outside of London has garnered over 100,000 signatures, triggering a parliamentary debate.
Those advocating for the change argue that the current system is unfair, particularly as older people often reduce their reliance on private vehicles. Supporters of the petition believe that free bus travel should be available universally for those over 60 in England, citing the existing benefits in other parts of the UK as proof that this is a reasonable ask.
The issue is especially important for the elderly who may no longer be driving but still require reliable and affordable transport.
According to the campaigners, the current system creates a situation where older residents outside London are effectively excluded from equitable access to public transport. In their view, extending free bus travel across the entire country would ensure greater fairness for senior citizens.
Government’s Position on the Proposal
In response to a parliamentary question raised by Liberal Democrat MP Josh Babarinde, the Department for Transport (DfT) has provided an update on the issue.
Simon Lightwood, the Minister for Transport, confirmed that local authorities have been allocated significant funds to improve bus services, and these funds can be used to extend discretionary travel schemes, including lowering the eligibility age for free bus travel.
Under the current scheme, the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) offers free off-peak bus travel to those of state pension age, which currently starts at 66.
Any change to this policy would require careful consideration, particularly regarding the financial sustainability of the ENCTS, which costs around £700 million annually. However, Lightwood pointed out that local councils are free to offer additional concessions funded from their own budgets, providing a potential pathway for the proposed extension to 60.
Public Support and the Path Forward
The petition for the change, now officially set to be debated in Parliament, underscores the growing public demand for more inclusive policies. With over 100,000 signatures, it highlights a desire for fairness and consistency across the country.
In particular, it aims to align England’s bus travel eligibility with that of other parts of the UK, ensuring that all citizens over 60 receive the same benefits, regardless of where they live. The debate in Parliament will provide further clarity on whether this widespread change will come to fruition in the near future.
