Government 'making us wait' as free bus pass age change 2026 confirmed
# Government 'making us wait' as free bus pass age change 2026 confirmed
## Delay implemented for eligibility to receive free bus pass in England
From 2026, individuals in England will have to wait longer to qualify for their free bus pass, as confirmed by a recent update from the Department for Transport (DfT). This decision has raised concerns about accessibility for older citizens who rely on these passes for essential travel.
Under the new rules, the eligibility age will be pushed back, impacting those who currently expect to receive their passes at the previously established age. Details regarding the exact implementation and further specifics are yet to be fully disclosed.
The DfT indicated that the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme incurs an estimated cost of £700 million each year, necessitating careful consideration of any changes that could affect the program's financial viability. "We fully recognise bus passes are vital to many older people, providing access to essential services and keeping people connected through free local travel," said a spokesperson.
Local authorities in England are permitted to offer additional concessions beyond the statutory requirements, allowing them the discretion to lower the eligibility age based on regional priorities. However, the overall administrative framework for bus passes varies across the devolved nations of the UK, leading to different schemes in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. "Concessionary travel is a devolved policy area," mentioned officials, highlighting the complexity of maintaining uniformity across the country.
This alteration in policy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding public transport and its accessibility for older individuals and raises questions about the broader implications for the community and local transport systems.