A significant debate is underway in Westminster concerning proposals to extend free bus travel to all individuals over the age of 60 in England. This follows a public petition that passed the 100,000 signature threshold, compelling MPs to formally consider the issue in Parliament.
Currently, while those aged 60 and over in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland benefit from universal concessionary travel schemes, only a limited number of areas in England, such as London and Merseyside, offer similar support through local authority funding. Elsewhere in England, the statutory age remains aligned with the state pension age of 66, leading to claims of inequality across the UK.
Diverging Travel Entitlements Across the UK
Under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS), individuals are only entitled to free off-peak bus travel once they reach the state pension age, currently set at 66. This differs sharply from the arrangements in the devolved administrations. According to the Department for Transport (DfT), “concessionary travel is a devolved policy area,” meaning Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland administer their own schemes with distinct eligibility criteria. As a result, residents in these nations become eligible at 60.
This discrepancy has sparked concern among campaigners and MPs who argue that people in England are being treated unfairly. The petition, brought to Parliament on 5 January, stated: “We believe the current situation is unjust and we want equality for everyone over 60.” The document goes on to highlight how older individuals often begin reducing car use and therefore rely more heavily travel on public transport, particularly buses.
In response to the petition, the DfT said the government recognises the “important role” of concessionary travel in combating social isolation and supporting access to essential services. Yet it added that any national change to eligibility would require “considerable financial commitment”, pointing out that the ENCTS currently costs around £700 million annually.
Local Authority Discretion and Funding Allocations
Despite national limitations, English local authorities retain the power to expand concessionary schemes at their discretion. According to the DfT, councils may “offer concessions beyond their statutory obligations,” including lowering the age threshold, provided they fund these changes from local budgets.
In October 2024, the government announced a £1 billion support package for bus services, of which £712 million has been allocated directly to local authorities. According to the DfT, this funding can be used “in whichever way they wish,” including potentially extending discretionary concessions. However, the department has made no indication that it will change the statutory eligibility age at the national level.
The petition also drew attention to an upcoming policy change. From April 2026, individuals in England will be required to wait an additional year before qualifying for a free bus pass, in line with the planned rise in the state pension age from 66 to 67. This gradual adjustment has been in place since 2014 and will affect both men and women by 2028.
While campaigners continue to call for equal treatment, the government remains focused on financial sustainability. For now, access to free bus travel for over-60s in England largely depends on local decision-making and available resources.
