There are a number of schemes in place across the UK to help make public transport more affordable for older people and those living with certain health conditions
Millions of Brits could be in line for extra help with their travel expenses, including free bus passes and hefty train discounts. No matter where you reside in the UK, there are numerous schemes designed to make public transport more affordable for older individuals and those with certain health conditions.
However, eligibility criteria can differ, particularly depending on the age required to qualify for specific schemes. For instance, the qualifying age for a free bus pass varies greatly depending on whether you live in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland – and even London has its own rules.
Additional travel support may also be available if you claim certain benefits. Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of all the assistance on offer…
Free bus travel for older people
In England, older people can get a free bus pass when they reach the state pension age of 66 for both men and women. You can apply for the scheme through your local council under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, but the actual name of the bus pass may differ depending on your location.
When applying, you might be asked to provide a passport-style photo and a document that verifies your age and address. This could include:
- Driving licence.
- Passport.
- Birth certificate.
- Current council tax bill.
- TV licence.
However, if you’re based in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you can access free bus travel at a significantly younger age. In Scotland, once you hit the age of 60, you’re eligible for free bus travel via the National Entitlement Card. This card allows you to hop on buses all over Scotland without paying a penny.
However, it’s worth noting that this concessionary travel only applies to registered local and long-distance bus services. So, unfortunately, premium-fare services, tours, excursions and group hire services aren’t included in the deal.
Elsewhere, free travel is on offer to everyone in Northern Ireland aged 60+ with a SmartPass card. In Wales you can get a bus pass when you reach 60.
If you live in London, you can travel free on buses, tubes and other transport when you are 60, but only within London.
Rail discounts
For those aged 60 and over in England, Scotland, and Wales, there’s a fantastic discount available on rail travel with a Senior Railcard. This little gem could save older people an average of £96 a year on their train journeys.
To apply, you’ll need a valid form of ID like a passport or driving licence to prove your age. You can apply either through the official Senior Railcard website or at a staffed station ticket office.
