A new report suggests that free bus passes for under-22s in England could help young people access jobs and education. MPs argue that rising fares and unreliable services limit opportunities. Bus travel in England has dropped sharply since 2009. Fares have also risen faster than inflation. Many rural areas now have few or no services. Some jobseekers cannot even reach workplaces within 45 minutes by bus.
The Transport Committee warns that high costs restrict young people’s options. They propose a trial of free bus passes for under-22s at any time. Scotland already offers free travel for 5–22-year-olds. Alex Mustafa, 19, relies on buses due to health and financial constraints. She says cancellations make planning difficult. “It’s hard to live life when buses don’t show up,” she explains.
Furthermore, Roman Dibden of Rise Up charity sees young people skip job interviews because of fares. He believes free bus passes for under-22s would remove a major hurdle. Dylan Lewis-Creser, 21, spends £10 weekly on buses. “The cost adds up fast,” they say. They support expanding Scotland’s free travel policy to England.
Moreover, experts say unreliable services hurt the economy. Bus-related spending fell by £8.9bn from 2011–2023. Deregulation often leaves poorer areas with no buses. Elderly riders avoid buses if stops feel unsafe. The report recommends better shelters and real-time updates.
Therefore, Jane Bishop runs a community transport service in Norfolk. Her riders depend on buses for social connections. “For some, we’re their only weekly contact,” she says. The £2 fare cap helps rural riders but funding is unstable. The LGA warns that stop-start budgets risk losing passengers permanently.
In addition, Steff Aquarone MP says rural transport needs a new model. “If buses go where people need, they’ll use them,” he argues. Free bus passes for under-22s could unlock education and job opportunities. With better funding and reliable services, buses may again become a lifeline for communities.
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