Over 150 million journeys made by young people using free bus pass

More than 150 million free bus journeys have been made by children and young people in Scotland since the Scottish Government introduced free bus travel for under 22s.

The scheme aims to encourage more sustainable travel and tackle issues related to transport poverty by:

• Encouraging more children and young people to start travelling by bus at an early age
• opening up social, education, employment and leisure opportunities
• saving families and young adults travel costs, and helping to end child poverty

Commenting on the significant milestone moment for the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme, Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:

“I’m delighted that young people all over Scotland have now made over 150 million journeys using their free bus pass.

“The scheme is making a huge difference for children, young people and their families – with this transformational policy making sustainable travel easier and cheaper for them each and every day.

“It’s not just about the number of journeys, it’s about what these journeys mean. It's opening doors to new opportunities, keeping people connected and making sustainable transport more affordable – giving Scotland’s children and young people the very best chance to succeed in life. I want to thank every young person who is using Scotland’s buses responsibly – and in doing so, playing their part in cutting emissions and taking climate action.”

 For more information on the scheme and on how to apply visit www.freebus.scot