Young people aged 16 to 20 will soon be able to qualify for a discounted bus fare with the launch of a new ‘16 to 20 Bus Saver’ scheme developed by West Sussex County Council alongside bus operators and funded by the Department for Transport (DfT).
From Sunday 22 October this year, young people will be able to receive the new discounted bus fares if their journey starts or finishes anywhere within West Sussex. The ’16 to 20 Bus Saver’ means young people can benefit from reduced child rate fares offered by their local bus operator.
Cllr Joy Dennis, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “When young people reach the age of 16, they usually stop qualifying for the cheaper child-rate tickets when travelling on the bus, and often end up having to pay an adult fare.
“This new scheme means young people can continue to receive a discount right up until the day before their 21st birthday, giving them the freedom to travel for less – whether it’s getting to college or university, attending a job interview, traveling to work, or meeting up with friends.”
The new scheme is expected to run until March 2025 and could be extended by bus operators if successful. To get the discount, young people just need to show a valid ID or a Citizencard.
Joy added: “We want to help young people become more independent and fulfil their potential and a key focus of Our Council Plan is to enable active travel and access to education, employment and services for our residents. The new ’16 to 20 Bus Saver’ not only helps us to do this but it also provides a more affordable and environmentally friendly travel option for young people.”
Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “People up and down the country deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport system. That is why we have provided West Sussex County Council with over £19 million to boost its bus services.
“Supporting the Council with introducing cheaper fares for 16 to 20 year olds is fantastic for local families and young people, who will now be able to get to work, school and visit loved ones for less.”
