Free 24/7 bus travel for disabled people confirmed by government
By William Fletcher MBE, Chief Executive Officer, New Reg Limited
Eligible disabled people in England will be able to travel by bus at any time of day or night for free, after the government announced it will remove time restrictions on concessionary passes.
Eligible disabled people across England are to receive free bus travel around the clock, every day of the week, after the government announced it will lift the time restrictions that currently apply to concessionary bus passes. The Prime Minister confirmed the change on Tuesday 18 August, framing it as part of broader action to ease the cost of living for people on lower or fixed incomes.
At present, concessionary passes typically cannot be used before a set time in the morning on weekdays, which can prevent disabled people from travelling to early medical appointments, shift work or other commitments without paying a fare. Removing those restrictions means pass holders will have the same freedom to travel at any hour, on any day, without those limitations.
The Department for Transport has confirmed the change applies in England. Disabled people who already hold a valid concessionary pass should be covered by the expanded entitlement once it comes into effect, though those who do not yet hold a pass may wish to check eligibility through their local council.