Brighton and Hove extends free bus passes for care leavers

The pilot, launched by Brighton and Hove City Council in September, has already seen 116 care leavers aged 18 to 24 sign up for the Care Leavers Bus Pass, representing around 40 per cent of those eligible.

In the first five weeks alone, care leavers took 3,270 bus journeys, using their passes an average of nine to 10 times per week.

Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, said: "We're really pleased to be extending this scheme.

"The early results show it's making a genuine difference to young people's lives.

"For many care leavers, the cost of travel can be a real barrier.

"Giving free access to buses helps people get to work, education, training and appointments, while also making it easier to stay connected with their communities."

One participant said: "The free bus pass has made a real difference to my daily life.

"It has helped me travel around more easily without worrying so much about the cost of transport, allowing me to attend appointments and go out with greater confidence.

"I am very grateful for this support."

Another said: "The Care leaver bus pass scheme has helped me keep my cost of travel down by an significant amount of money.

"Been stress free not worrying about transport."

The scheme will now continue until March 31, 2027.

It was originally funded as a short-term pilot through the Department for Transport’s Local Authority Bus Grant.

Councillor Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, said: "We're committed to being a council that supports our care-experienced young people and helps them thrive.

"It's fantastic to see so many care leavers taking advantage of the scheme and hearing first-hand how much of a difference it is making.

"I want everyone who is eligible for this scheme to hear about it and take it up."

Eligible care leavers aged 18 to 24 living in Brighton and Hove can still apply for a free bus pass through the council’s website.