Under consideration PE2216: Extend Young Persons' Free Bus Travel to include all under-26s
Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to extend eligibility for the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme to include everyone aged 22 to 25 inclusive, using powers under the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019.
The current age limit of 21 creates an unfair cliff-edge for young people entering work, apprenticeships or higher education. Extending the scheme would reduce socio-economic disadvantage, boost workforce participation and aid net-zero targets.
Background information
The current age threshold at 21 creates a significant "cliff-edge" for young people transitioning into the workforce, apprenticeships, or higher education. While the scheme has been transformative for those under 22, the 22-25 age group remains heavily affected by high transport costs during a critical career establishment period.
The Government’s Fairer Scotland Duty requires reducing socio-economic disadvantage. The Under 26 Concessionary Fares Review (2022) identified transport costs as a major barrier to employment. Transport Scotland’s Year 1 Evaluation showed affordability rose from only 26% to 38% even after free travel for under-22s, highlighting ongoing barriers for 22-25 year-olds.
With £414.5 million already allocated to concessionary travel in 2025-26, the estimated £100 million for this extension is a strategic investment in Scotland’s workforce and net-zero goals. As major parties pledged this in their 2026 manifestos, Parliament must now turn these promises into action.
5 signatures
This petition is now under consideration
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