More than 14.5 million children used the bus for free this summer, thanks to the government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme, according to new figures. The scheme, which ran from 1 August until 31 August 2026, allowed kids to travel to beaches, national parks and other fun days out for nothing.
Scheme inherited by Andy Burnham
The free bus pass rule benefited more than 14 million UK families, even though it was the brainchild of predecessors Rachel Reeves and Sir Keir Starmer. The scheme was first announced by former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer with now-ex Chancellor Rachel Reeves, but was inherited by Andy Burnham, who was leading the country by the time the scheme kicked off.
Bus companies across the country have reported major increases in passengers, according to figures from the Confederation of Passenger Transport and participating operators. With child fares typically costing up to £2, families were able to save on the cost of travel on all participating buses.
Impact on families and bus services
The scheme has now ended, but it will be followed by a universal £2 bus fare cap from 2027, a policy brought in by Andy Burnham, who oversaw a similar scheme in Greater Manchester during his time as Mayor.
Buses and Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “Whether it’s a trip to the seaside, a park or a museum, it’s great to see that millions of children used the bus for free this summer.
“The Great British Summer Savings Scheme has given families room to breathe from the cost-of-living squeeze. We’re getting passengers back on the bus, transforming services across the country, from capping fares at £2 from next year to 24/7 bus services for disabled passengers.”
Graham Vidler, chief executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: “Our members are proud to have delivered over 14 million free child journeys this summer – equivalent to two for every young person in England.
“Millions of children and their families have explored their local area and experienced the freedom of travelling by bus.”
