The UK Government has confirmed that local authorities in England have the power to change the eligibility age for free bus travel. This revelation comes in response to an online petition advocating for a reduction in the qualifying age to 60, similar to policies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The petition, which has gained over 18,200 signatures, is pushing for nationwide equality in free bus travel access for older individuals.
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The Call for Change: Extending Free Bus Travel to Over-60s
The campaign, led by Karen Hickman, argues that the current system in England is unfair. Unlike Scotland, where all residents over 60 qualify for free bus travel, people in England (outside London) must wait until they reach State Pension age—currently 66—to receive their concessionary bus pass. The petition asserts that this delay is unjust and calls for a unified policy across the UK.
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Government’s Response: Financial Considerations and Local Authority Powers
In a written response, the Department for Transport acknowledged the importance of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS), which provides free off-peak bus travel to eligible disabled individuals and those of State Pension age. However, it emphasized that any changes to the scheme must be carefully considered due to financial constraints, as the ENCTS currently costs around £700 million per year.
Importantly, the response also highlighted that local councils in England already have the power to lower the eligibility age for free bus passes if they choose to do so. Local authorities can use discretionary funding to introduce additional concessions beyond the national statutory requirements, allowing them to tailor public transport policies to the needs of their residents.
Government Investment in Bus Services
The UK Government recently announced a £1 billion boost for buses, with £712 million allocated to local authorities for service improvements. This funding can be used at their discretion, meaning councils have the option to introduce extended travel concessions for over-60s if they deem it a priority.
How Does Free Bus Travel Work in Scotland?
Scotland’s National Entitlement Card (NEC) grants free bus travel to individuals aged 60 and over, alongside disabled passengers. Administered by the Scottish Government, the NEC is a multifunctional smartcard offering access to a range of public services, including reduced fares on trains, subways, and ferries through the Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme.
The NEC is valid for up to three years, and cardholders must ensure timely renewal to avoid travel disruptions. Unlike in England, Scotland’s government centrally funds the scheme, ensuring uniform access to free bus travel for all eligible residents.
Petition Status: Will It Be Debated in Parliament?
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate by the UK Parliament’s Petitions Committee. This could lead to further discussions on standardizing free bus travel for over-60s across the UK.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Free Bus Travel Eligibility in England?
While there is no immediate change to the ENCTS at the national level, local authorities in England can extend free travel eligibility if they allocate funding accordingly. Those in favor of lowering the eligibility age are encouraged to lobby their local councils and continue supporting the petition.
For now, older people in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will continue enjoying free bus travel from age 60, while those in England must wait until they reach State Pension age unless their local authority implements discretionary changes.
Stay informed and support the petition to help shape the future of free travel for over-60s in England.
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