Parents Struggle to Secure Free School Bus Passes Amid Policy Changes
A new school transport policy in North Yorkshire is causing frustration among parents, who feel they have to 'act as detectives' to secure free bus passes for their children. Under the updated rules, secondary school pupils are only eligible for free bus travel to their nearest school, instead of an... [More info]
Anneka Rice teams up with bus company to ‘re-discover the joy’ of concessionary bus travel
The partnership follows new research from First Bus, which reveals that while 80% of Welsh respondents thought getting their bus pass would make them feel old, they actually love having one – with almost three-quarters (74%) describing it as their “ticket to freedom.”
Highlighting the benefits of concessionary bus travel, 67% of those surveyed in Wales say having a bus pass has improved their quality of life.
To inspire others to take full advantage of concessionary bus travel, Anneka has been travelling the length and breadth of the UK, meeting people who are already making the most of their passes. Their stories show the unexpected joys of bus travel – from travelling to music venues, to those playing “bus pass roulette” and letting their next destination be decided by fate.
Commenting on the new campaign, Anneka said: “I’ve spent a lifetime chasing adventures – sometimes by helicopter, sometimes in a jumpsuit! But these days, there’s nothing more freeing than hopping on a bus and seeing where the day takes you.
“This campaign is about reminding people that the spirit of adventure never fades – and with a bus pass in your pocket, there’s a whole world to rediscover right on your doorstep. I’ve met so many incredible people who prove that age is no barrier to curiosity, spontaneity, and fun. Whether it’s trying something new, revisiting somewhere old, or simply striking up a conversation on the journey, that adventurous spirit is still strong.”
Rob Pymm, Commercial Director, First Bus West of England and Cymru, said: “We believe that concessionary bus travel is a gateway to independence, connection, and adventure. We want to encourage people in their 60s and above to make the most of their pass – whether it’s at home gathering dust in a drawer or maybe they haven’t even applied yet.
“Using a bus pass isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about unlocking new opportunities, staying active, and maintaining the social connections that keep us healthy and happy. We want everyone eligible to see their pass as more than just a card – it’s a ticket to freedom, and we’re proud to support them on every journey. Life really does begin at bus pass!”
I just signed the petition "Make the National Bus Passes UK Wide" and wanted to see if you could help by adding your name.
Our goal is to reach 300,000 signatures and we need more support. You can read more and sign the petition here:
Retiree travels UK on free bus pass to pick litter
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c72yljdp5njo
There's a novel idea, and one that not only cuts down on litter, but encourages social interaction & improves wellbeing & mental health.
Well done, Ruth. We need more like you.
#Litter #Trash #Rubbish #Garbage #LitterPicking #Womble #Environment #CivicPride#BusTravel #BusPass #Volunteer #Redruth #Cornwall #Wellbeing #MentalHealth
rhydon6728 at KillBait
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