Young people have reported to the BBC that the “extortionate” cost of bus travel in England is impacting their social lives and ability to afford rent.
A parliamentary report has recommended free bus travel for individuals under 22, mirroring a similar scheme in Scotland, to facilitate access to employment and education. The proposal aims to alleviate financial burdens for young adults.
The Department for Transport states it is allocating “£1bn in multi-year funding to improve the reliability and frequency of bus services across the country.”
However, the BBC has gathered accounts from individuals aged 22 and under who claim that high bus fares significantly reduce their disposable income, affecting their ability to afford essential items like food.
Maisy Moazzenkivi, 18, residing in Coventry, commutes nearly two hours each way to college, four days a week.
Due to her autism, Maisy uses a disability bus pass, which offers reduced fares compared to standard rates. Despite this, she still spends £8 daily on transportation, as her free travel allowance is only valid after 09:30, thirty minutes after her classes begin.
She indicates that the cost of travel diminishes the funds available for food and snacks throughout the day.
“Upon finishing college, I often feel hungry and would like to purchase a meal deal or a snack for the journey home, but the added expense is prohibitive. I am fortunate that my family provides meals, but this is not the case for everyone.”
Maisy believes that free bus travel would enable her to participate in more social activities and save for discretionary purchases.
“While it may seem trivial, I aspire to save for a Juicy Couture tracksuit,” she stated.
Gracie Moore, 22, who lives in Slough, relies on the bus for her daily commute to and from work, incurring a monthly cost of £120.
“For individuals earning slightly above the minimum wage, this represents a substantial expense,” notes Gracie, who works as an administration assistant for a care home company.
She asserts that the elevated cost of transportation for young individuals creates challenges in balancing employment and social engagement.
Gracie acknowledges that travel expenses “absolutely” influence her decision to remain living with her family.
“While this limits my independence, it significantly reduces my living expenses.”
Gracie previously resided in Madrid, where she enjoyed unlimited access to buses, trains, the metro, and trams for a monthly fee of €8 (£6.90) with a young person’s travel card.
“I struggle to comprehend the exorbitant costs in the UK, given the substantial subsidies provided in other European countries,” she remarked. “The justification for the pricing of transport here remains unclear to me.”
Nikita Upreti, 20, an international student from Nepal studying at University College Birmingham, states that the increasing cost of travel is making it “harder” to afford her monthly bus pass.
Upon her arrival in Birmingham in September 2024, Nikita’s monthly student bus pass cost £49. It now costs £53.
“The student discount is no longer providing sufficient assistance,” she says.
Nikita also works 20 hours per week as a waitress. Despite working the maximum hours permitted by her university, she still faces challenges in covering her rent amidst the rising cost of living.
She believes that free bus travel “would make a significant difference” to her financial situation.
“The saved money could be allocated towards groceries and educational resources, providing substantial relief.”
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