Some 14 million Brits have just a few days left to snap up a free bus travel perk. Children aged from five to 15 have been able to travel free on buses up and down the country since August 1. The Government's Summer Bus Fare Offer is due to end on Monday, August 31, meaning families have just a few days left to benefit.
Scheme details
When first announced, ministers said 14 million youngsters across England could take advantage of the offer, which was introduced under former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer's administration to help ease cost of living pressures.
Scores of bus companies are taking part in the scheme on hundreds of routes. The companies included are Arriva, Stagecoach, First and Diamond Bus.
How families can benefit
Families will need to check whether the bus company and route they want to use is taking part in the scheme. Parents could save on the usual child fare, which is typically between £1 and £2 per journey.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said when the scheme launched: "We're giving families room to breathe from the cost-of-living squeeze.
"With free bus travel for five to 15-year-olds and discounts on kids' meals at restaurants, cinema tickets and theme parks, we're helping people make the most of the time they have together for the school holidays."
Related disabled travel changes
The perk comes during the same month Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced disabled people across England would get free bus travel all day and everyday. Disabled bus pass holders will be able to travel on buses for free, no matter the time of day, from April 1.
Mr Burnham said the extra support would help open up access to workplaces, education, training and ease the cost of living. Under current arrangements, disabled bus passes are only valid for travel between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays unless councils choose to pay for an extension.
Jon Sparkes, Chief Exec at Mencap, said: "This is welcome relief for disabled people struggling with the cost of living as well as the extra costs of being disabled.
"Most importantly though it removes the inference that disabled people can't or shouldn't work."
