The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA) has announced the extension of the £1 child bus fare cap until spring 2029. This initiative, part of a broader passenger support package, is expected to save families across the region millions of pounds.
Since its introduction, the £1 child fare cap has already saved families approximately £1.1 million over the past year. Additional savings were realized during the summer and Christmas holidays through the ‘Kids Go Free’ scheme, launched in June 2025. This scheme notably boosted travel among children from low-income areas, with a significant rise in journeys compared to the same period in 2024.
Beyond child fare savings, regional efforts have led to at least £800,000 of fare reductions for West of England residents since last spring. WECA is using funds from the Department of Transport’s Bus Grant to maintain the child fare freeze, reducing fares by up to 50%. Unlike the national fare cap of £3 for adults—in which children normally pay half (£1.50)—this initiative sets a more affordable flat rate of £1 for children.
The multi-operator fare cap will also be extended, alongside free bus travel for care leavers up to age 25, the Youth Guarantee free bus pass, and the Diamond Pass, which offers free travel for pensioners and disabled people.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, commented, “Families in the region are already benefiting from our £1 child fare cap. Freezing child fares for three more years will help local households save over £4 million by 2029, all while easing the cost of living and supporting efforts to reduce child poverty. Extending free travel for care leavers and Diamond Pass holders will also provide significant support for a variety of passengers.”
In the coming weeks, WECA will invite public feedback on its evolving Bus Plan, aimed at creating a reliable bus network through collaboration with councils, operators, and communities. This initiative is a key focus within the region’s broader transport investment, bolstered by a record £752 million secured from the government last year.
Additionally, the recently published Transport Vision outlines ambitious goals for integrated services featuring reliable, affordable transport with unified tickets and timetables. It also emphasizes enhancements to the regional rail network, expansion of mass transit options, safer active travel, and improved street infrastructure.
South Gloucestershire Council Leader Councillor Maggie Tyrrell highlighted the broader benefits: “Affordable bus travel for children and care leavers isn’t just about saving money; it’s about fostering independence. When young people become comfortable with bus travel early, it opens up vital access to education, social activities, and employment. Building these habits now sets them up for greater mobility and self-reliance well into adulthood.”