Over 50 million free bus journeys have been made by people under the age of 22 since last year.

It comes after the Scottish Government introduced the initiative to help young people tackle the cost of living and be more sustainable.

The project has now been hailed as a “game changer” for young people as it opens doors for their independence.

Over two million people across Scotland are now eligible for free bus travel which includes those under the age of 22, everyone 60 and over, and disabled people and companions can also benefit from free bus travel.

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Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said: “It’s really encouraging that over 50 million free bus journeys have now been made by under 22s across Scotland.

“This policy is a game changer for our young people – and I'm looking forward to hearing about how free bus travel is giving them more independence, confidence and flexibility in how they access services.

“I’m grateful to all our partners and local authorities for helping to encourage as many young people as possible to take advantage of this vital policy, particularly during the ongoing cost of living crisis.

“Indeed, evidence from the Child Poverty Action Group has shown that free bus travel can save a total of £3,000 in the lifetime cost of a child in Scotland.

"The Scottish Government will continue to promote the scheme, building on our partnerships created during the roll out of free bus for under 22s.”

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Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants’ Rights Patrick Harvie said: “50 million free journeys made by under 22s is a big landmark and part of an even bigger effort to promote public transport and walking, wheeling and cycling as the easiest ways get around.

“As we look ahead to the next 50 million journeys, I want to make sure that every young person takes up the benefit of free bus travel.

“The work that Barnardo’s Scotland and other partners have undertaken shows how this can be done.

"It’s equally heartening to hear of bus operators who are benefiting from greater levels of use from young people – helping to increase demand and make routes more viable. That makes the scheme a win-win for all passengers.”

 

 

Martin Crewe, Director for Barnardo’s Scotland said: “The free bus travel scheme for under 22s has created a wealth of new opportunities for young people to access education, work, training and leisure activities, with more young people using bus services as a result.

“Following feedback provided by Barnardo’s Scotland during consultation around the scheme, Transport Scotland had reached out to us to create a bespoke training package on child safeguarding for bus drivers across Scotland."