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Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel

Young people who are 5-21 years old living in Scotland get free bus travel.   It’s part of the Scottish Government’s plan to build a fairer, greener society.

Once you have your National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC) you can travel on most buses right across Scotland.

When you are ready to travel, make sure you have your card with you when you board the bus. Tell the bus driver where you are going then tap your card on the electronic ticket machine. The smart technology will take care of the rest.

• Parents or guardians must apply on behalf of 5-15 year olds.
• Young people who are 16-21 years old can apply themselves.
• Children under 5 years old already travel for free on buses and don’t need a card.
• Anyone using an NEC for free travel due to a disability does not need to re-apply.
• There are a few bus services that aren’t included in the scheme such as premium fare services, sightseeing buses, cross-border services and dedicated school buses. Please contact the bus company before travelling if you are unsure.

How to apply

There are several ways to apply for a new or replacement Young Scot NEC. Find out what you need in order to apply.

You can apply:

• Online at   getyournec.scot . You can find out more information about the application process on the getyournec.scot   website.
• Directly with your local council. You can find their details  here . Scroll down and select your local council area.
• If you’re aged between 16 and 21 and already have an active NEC or Young Scot NEC, you have the option to download free bus travel onto your existing card using the  Transport Scot Pass Collect app.  An active Young Scot NEC will have a long number next to the ITSO logo and the date of birth will be highlighted with a pink strip.

Watch our video below for a step-by-step guide on using the Transport Scot Pass Collect app.

Find out the best way for you to apply at freebus.scot   

For more information about the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel Scheme, please visit  freebus.scot .  

Travel discounts  

With your Young Scot NEC you also get access to other travel discounts if you are 16,17 or 18 years old and if you are a full time volunteer aged up to 25 years old. Find out more on the Young Scot website.    

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National Entitlement Card (for 60+ and disabled)

Nec c - web.jpg.

The National Entitlement Card (NEC) is ITSO enabled and available for you if you are over 60 years old or are eligible due to a disability. The NEC is your concessionary travel pass, more commonly known as the free bus pass, which gives you free travel on Scotland's public transport bus network. The NEC may also provide access to free or discounted travel in your local authority, for example on Glasgow Subway, Edinburgh Trams and even on some ScotRail services. Check with your local authority for more details.

The NEC can be used to store ITSO travel tickets.

Whilst the NEC will provide access to concessionary travel on Lothian transport, the NEC cannot be used to store their passes. 

How to apply

Available for 5-21 year olds living in Scotland

The National Entitlement Card is your key to opening doors and unlocking your potential

How you apply depends on where you live and the age of the young person.

Answer the questions below to see how you can apply for your, or your child’s, new or replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC).

A parent, guardian or carer will need to apply if the young person is under the age of 16.

What age is the young person?

Find out more about how to apply below, information for parents, guardians or carers of a 5−15 year old.

A parent, guardian or carer must apply on behalf of 5–15 year olds for a new NEC or Young Scot NEC with the free travel entitlement on it – even if they already have a card.

In some local council areas, schools are coordinating applications on behalf of their pupils. Schools will contact parents, guardians or carers and pupils directly if this arrangement is in place.

If your child is under 12, they don’t need their photograph on their National Entitlement Card (NEC). If your child is 11 years old, you can request a card with a photograph ahead of their 12 th birthday, and you might choose to apply for a Young Scot NEC. During Primary 7, your school may contact you to ask if you would like a Young Scot NEC to be ordered for your child.

For those aged 11 and over, it’s your choice whether you apply for a Young Scot NEC or a standard NEC. Remember that Young Scot offers discounts, rewards, membership and is PASS accredited, meaning you can use a Young Scot NEC as proof of age. Find out more at young.scot/card.

Remember that free bus travel is available nationwide! This means your child can travel across Scotland, so please take care when making the decision about applying for them. It’s a big responsibility – but it can come with fantastic benefits and opportunities.

Information for 16−21 year olds

You should apply for a new card with the free travel entitlement on it. You need to apply yourself, but it’s easy and you could even use your existing card as proof of your identity.

Alternatively, if you already have an active NEC or Young Scot NEC issued prior to applications opening on 10 January 2022, you can download free bus travel onto your existing card using the Transport Scot Pass Collect app . This means you may not need to apply for a new card to access your free bus travel. Active cards are those received since 2016 – they’ll have a long number next to the ITSO logo and, if there’s a date of birth shown, it will be highlighted with a pink strip.

Information for parents, guardians or carers of someone under 5 years old

You don’t need to apply for children who are under 5 years old as they can already travel for free on buses in Scotland and don’t need a card. But don’t forget to apply when your wee one turns 5 to open up a world of possibility! You can apply up to two weeks before their 5th birthday.

What kind of card can I apply for?

You can choose to apply for the Young Scot NEC (for those aged 11 and over) or a standard NEC. If you do choose a Young Scot NEC, you can use it to save money with in-person and online discounts – with over 500 discounts in Scotland and over 100,000 deals across Europe. You can also use it as proof of age! What’s more, you can collect points by taking part in activities and exchanging these for Rewards. Find out more at young.scot/card .

How can I apply for a replacement?

You can contact your local authority to request a replacement or visit getyournec.scot to make an application online. If you live in the Glasgow city council area, you can complete an online form to request a replacement through Glasgow life .

After you’ve applied for a new card or requested a replacement, your old card will stop working. As soon as your new card arrives, you should start using it and destroy your old card.

Learn more about us and how the Scottish Government and bus operators are working together.

Please remember – all journeys made under the scheme must be recorded so that the Scottish Government can reimburse bus operators for carrying you for free. Tapping your card at the ticket machine on board the bus each time you travel makes this possible.

Getting the bus

If getting the bus is new to you, here are some handy tips for turning you into a bus-trip pro.

How it works

Find out who is eligible for free bus travel and what buses you can use.  

Planning a journey

It’s always a good idea to plan your journey but especially if you are new to it.

Staying safe

Here are some handy tips to keep yourself safe throughout your journey.

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National Entitlement Card and Free Travel Passes

The National Entitlement Card (NEC) can be used across many different services including as a bus pass, library card and Young Scot card. The national travel scheme provides free bus travel Scotland-wide for older people, disabled people and under 22-year-olds.

The National Entitlement Card (NEC) in Perth and Kinross delivers the following services:

• Free bus travel for Under 22s
• Free or concessionary travel for 60+ and disabled people including mental health conditions (mental illness, mental disorder and personality disorder)
• Young Scot (if you are aged 11 to 26 your card carries the PASS hologram and Euro Under 26 brand giving proof of age and local, national, and international discounts)
• Schools (all PKC secondary schools issue an NEC for cashless catering )
• Library (use your card at your local library or at school)
• Voluntary proof of age
• If you are aged 16-18, or a full time volunteer under the age of 26 the Young Scot NEC gives a 1/3 discount off the adult single fare on most local and long-distance buses in Scotland and also discount on rail journeys and season tickets.

Online services

You can access the following services online:

• Apply for a new under 22s bus pass  
• Apply for a new over 60s bus pass ( application can be made 2 weeks before 60th birthday)
• Apply for a Young Scot card  
• Apply for a new disabled bus pass  
• Apply to renew an expired / expiring card  
• Request a photo update  
• Request a replacement card

Apply online

The online service is run by the Improvement Service and enables Scottish residents to apply for and manage their card entirely online through getyournec.scot  Once your application has been processed your NEC card will be delivered to your home address. 

We will not be able to deal with enquiries for applications submitted online, you can track the progress of your application at getyournec.scot

Other ways to apply

If you are unable to apply online, you can download and complete an application form (Word doc) [52KB] and return this along with copies of supporting documents .

• All applicants must provide  proof of person, address and photograph .
• Applications for individuals with disabilities should also include proof of eligibility .

If you require a paper copy of the form to be posted out or would like to make an appointment, please contact the Customer Service Centre by phone:  01738 475000 or  email:   [email protected] .

Free bus travel for under 22s

The Freebus.scot website provides lots of information including how to apply.

If you cannot, or do not want to apply online, you can download the required form:

• Applicants with a current NEC card  Parental approval application form (Word doc) [43KB]
• Applicants with no NEC card  NEC application form (Word doc) [52KB]

Lost, stolen or damaged cards

You can request a replacement card if it is lost, stolen or damaged by emailing  [email protected]  or calling Customer Service Centre on 01738 475000 and providing the following information:  Full name, home address and date of birth.

• Please note - If the card being replaced is used for free school meals or is linked to a library account the new card will need to be taken to the school and/or library to be coded to these services.

Renew an expired or expiring card

Individuals with a disabled or companion entitlement (+1) card must provide current entitlement proof when card is due to expire.  Renewal can be done online using link above under 'Online Services' or entitlement proof documents can be emailed to [email protected] .

Documentation must be dated within the last 18 months and confirm the length of benefit entitlement.

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Website Links

• NEC privacy policy
• NEC terms and conditions

How to apply for or renew your National Entitlement Card

You can use getyournec.scot to apply for, renew and request a replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC). If you cannot submit your request online, please select from the menu if you are enquiring about a 60+ or disabled NEC, or the Young Persons' Free Bus Travel NEC for those under 22.

Local authority contacts for 60+ or disabled scheme

Using the details below, please contact your local authority or Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) who can advise of the current application and renewal process in your area.

Aberdeen City

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633560
• Phone number:  03000 200 293
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Aberdeen City website

Aberdeenshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633727
• Phone number:  03456 081 208
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Aberdeenshire website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633719
• Phone number:  03452 777 778
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Angus website

Argyll & Bute (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633297
• Phone number:  0141 333 3211
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Argyll & Bute (SPT) website

Clackmannanshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633741
• Phone number:  01259 450 000
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Clackmannanshire website

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633624
• Phone number:  01851 822 661
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles) website

Dumfries & Galloway

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633670
• Phone number:  030 33 33 3000
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Dumfries & Galloway website

Dundee City

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633725
• Phone number:  01382 433 267
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Dundee City website

East Ayrshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633687
• East Ayrshire (SPT) website

East Dunbartonshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633564
• East Dunbartonshire (SPT) website

East Lothian

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633546
• Phone number:  01620 827 827
• Email address:  [email protected]
• East Lothian website

East Renfrewshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633570
• East Renfrewshire (SPT) website

Edinburgh (City of Edinburgh)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633668
• Phone number:  0131 200 2351
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Edinburgh (City of Edinburgh) website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633733
• Phone number: 01324 506 607
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Falkirk website (Disabled)
• Falkirk website (Over 60)
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633250
• Phone number:  0345 155 0066
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Fife website

Glasgow City (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633740
• Glasgow City (SPT) website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633603
• Phone number:  01349 886 604
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Highland website

Inverclyde (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633744
• Inverclyde (SPT) website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633678
• Phone number:  0131 561 5455
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Midlothian website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633737
• Phone number:  0300 123 4565
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Moray website

North Ayrshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633279
• North Ayrshire (SPT) website

North Lanarkshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633284
• North Lanarkshire (SPT) website

Orkney Islands

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633734
• Phone number:  01856 873 535
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Orkney Islands website

Perth & Kinross

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633708
• Phone number:  01738 475 000
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Perth & Kinross website

Renfrewshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633289
• Renfrewshire (SPT) website

Scottish Borders

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633743
• Phone number:  0300 100 1800
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Scottish Borders website

Shetland Islands

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633679
• Phone number:  01595 744 868
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Shetland Islands website

South Ayrshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633559
• South Ayrshire (SPT) website

South Lanarkshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633231
• South Lanarkshire (SPT) website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633739
• Phone number:  01786 237 500
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Stirling website

West Dunbartonshire (SPT)

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633511
• West Dunbartonshire (SPT) website

West Lothian

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633285
• Phone number:  01506 280 000
• Email address:  [email protected]
• West Lothian website

Local authority contacts for Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633560
• Phone:  03000 200 292
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633727
• Phone:  03456 081 208
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633719
• Phone:  03452 777 778 

Argyll & Bute

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633297
• Phone: 01546 605 517
• Email address:  [email protected]
• Argyll & Bute website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633741
• Phone:  01259 450 000
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633624
• Phone:  01851 822 661
• Email for 5-10 year olds:  [email protected]
• Email for 11-21 year olds:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633670
• Phone:  0303 333 3000
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633725
• Phone:  01382 433 267
• Email: [email protected]

East Ayrshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633687
• Email:   Online contact form
• East Ayrshire website

East Dunbartonshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633564
• Phone:  0300 123 4510
• Email: [email protected]
• East Dunbartonshire website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633546
• Phone:  01620 827 827
• Email:   [email protected]

East Renfrewshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633570
• Phone:  0141 577 3001
• Email: [email protected]
• East Renfrewshire website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633668
• Phone:  0131 200 2351
• Email:   [email protected]
• Phone: 01324 506 607
• Email:   [email protected]
• Falkirk website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633250
• Phone:  0345 155 0066
• Email:   [email protected]

Glasgow City

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633740
• Phone: 0141 276 0727
• Email:  [email protected]
• Glasgow Life website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633603
• Phone:  01349 886 604
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633744
• Phone:  01475 715 450
• Email:  [email protected]
• Inverclyde website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633678
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633737
• Phone:  0300 123 4565
• Email:   [email protected]

North Ayrshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633279
• Phone:  01294 310 000
• Email: [email protected]
• North Ayrshire website

North Lanarkshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633284
• Email for Young Scot cardholders (Age 11+):   [email protected]
• Email for age 5-10:  [email protected]
• North Lanarkshire website for age 5-15
• North Lanarkshire website for age 16-21
• Phone:  01856 873 535
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633708
• Phone:  01738 475 000
• Email:   [email protected]

Renfrewshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633289
• Phone:  0300 300 0209
• Email:   [email protected]
• Renfrewshire website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633743
• Phone:  0300 100 1800
• Email:   [email protected]
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633679
• Phone:  01595 744 490
• Email:   [email protected]

South Ayrshire

• Phone:  0300 123 0900
• Email:   [email protected]
• South Ayrshire website

South Lanarkshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633231
• Phone:  0303 123 1015
• Email:   [email protected]
• South Lanarkshire website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633739
• Phone: 01786 233 562
• Email: [email protected]

West Dunbartonshire

• Associated card number (First six digits):  633511
• Phone: 01389 738 282 
• Email: [email protected]
• West Dunbartonshire website
• Associated card number (First six digits):  633285
• Phone: 01506 280 150
• Email: [email protected]

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Caerlaverock Castle

Passes & Offers for Holidays, Attractions & Travel in Scotland

Scotland can offer great value for money. Here’s our one-stop shop for great offers, deals and passes that can make trip planning easy and save your money. Before you visit Scotland's paid-for attractions, check if there are any hotel offers, attractions or travel passes, or dining out deals available. 

Get Outdoors and Enjoy Days Out this Spring and Summer in Scotland

Scotrail Highland Explorer near Dalmally

© Scotrail

• Travel around Scotland with ScotRail’s Kids for a Quid offer where kids can hop on board for just £1 with a paying adult.
• Enjoy up to 50% off select attractions when you travel by bus, bike or on foot. Find out more about Good Journeys in Scotland.
• Scotland offers a range of attractions that are free to enter , enjoy museums, galleries, ancient ruins and even some of our most spectacular castles, there’s plenty to choose from.
• Explore Scotland's stunning islands and coasts with Stena Line  this summer, where kids aged 4 - 15 years go free.

Kings College Chapel, Aberdeen

© Kings College Chapel

• This winter and spring support local businesses with Scotland Loves Local featuring a range of products, experiences, food & drink and more that gives back to Scottish towns, villages and businesses.
• On the lookout for something special to add to your Sunday roast?  Go Rural and find what you're looking for at one of Scotland’s farms and farm shops. With a variety of meats, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, eggs, home baking, dairy and more all locally reared or produced, you’re guaranteed great quality and mouthwatering dishes. Many farms offer agritourism gift vouchers for tours and experiences, so if you're looking to take that farm trip a little further, you're in luck!

Find top offers & deals

From money-off attractions to travel passes, there are lots of ways to holiday for less in Scotland.

Culzean Castle and Country Park

© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group

Attractions and activity passes

Skip the queue and visit bucket list attractions at a discounted price.

Sea Life Aquarium at Loch Lomond Shores

Family Passes & Offers

Make happy memories with our family friendly passes and exclusive offers.

Offers from across Scotland

Find the latest offers and best deals for your break from businesses on our website.

Accommodation

Things to do offers

Food & Drink

Giraffes at Edinburgh Zoo

© The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland

Regional Passes and Offers

Offers for Edinburgh, and the north east of Scotland.

Travel Passes & Offers

Stagecoach MegaRider

For local travel by bus, the MegaRider bus ticket gives you unlimited travel on Stagecoach buses in a chosen area.

Citylink Explorer Pass

Travel between cities and towns by coach with Citylink and make savings with 3-day, 5-day or 8-day passes.

City Sightseeing Buses

Find hop-on, hop-off buses in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness and take in all the local attractions.

BritRail Pass

Exclusively for international visitors, these passes allow unlimited travel through Scotland, England and Wales.

Spirit of Scotland Travel Pass

This pass includes 4-day or 8-day unlimited rail travel, as well as ferry journeys, subway and tram services, bus routes and much more.

ScotRail Club 50

Discounts and flat fares for over 50s with membership for £15 a year.

ScotRail Railcards

Railcards are a great way to save money when you travel regularly.

Find out everything you need to know about purchasing, using and renewing your railcard.

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Free bus travel and Young Scot cards

Apply, renew or replace bus pass.

You can apply, renew or replace the following cards on the  Get Your NEC website :

• over 60s bus pass
• a Young Scot card
• a disabled concessionary travel card

You can check your eligibility, and any evidence you will require on the Transport Scotland website .

You will also be required to upload a completed certificate, which has been countersigned by the relevant professional person, if you are applying on the following grounds. You have:

• epilepsy and been told not to drive because you have had a seizure in the last 12 months
• a mental health condition that has lasted for more than a year and you need to travel to health or social care appointments
• a learning disability and you need to travel to see a Support Worker or get to appointments or activities

How to apply

For 60+ concessionary travel:.

For disabled concessionary travel:

Other ways to apply

If you cannot apply online via the GetYourNEC website, we will accept new, renewal and replacement applications for NEC (bus pass) and Young Scot cards via our online contact form .

If you require a NEC or Young Scot card you should apply for one as soon as possible, as due to high demand for the NEC service, it is taking longer than normal for applications to be processed. You should allow two weeks from the date we have received all the information within your application for your card to be delivered.

National Entitlement Card

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Free bus pass scheme costs and uptake: FOI release

Information request and response under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002.

Information requested

• How much has the free bus pass for under 22s cost the government overall since it launched? Breakdown of these costs.
• How much is it estimated to continue to cost over the next five years?
• The government's cost/benefit analysis of the scheme so far a year on from delivery.
• What has the uptake been like for each of the local authority areas as reported to the government? Breakdown by each area and how many people have their card compared to how many do not?

1. Between 31 January 2022 and 3 February 2023 the Scottish Government spent £102,378,600.88 on the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme. This is broken down in to £97,166,918.69 of operator reimbursements costs and £5,211,682.19 of operational set-up and maintenance costs.

2. The Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme is the first of its kind globally. Therefore there is not sufficient economic, demographic or travel pattern data to make such estimates. 

In the financial year 2023-24, the scheme is expected to cost up to an estimated £189.5 million in claims.

3. Transport Scotland are undertaking an evaluation of the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme to assess whether the scheme is working as expected in achieving its objectives and benefits. A value for money assessment will be undertaken at a later stage of the evaluation programme, usually three years after the introduction of the scheme. This is to allow enough time for the benefits of the scheme to mature, and ensure an accurate and robust cost/benefit assessment.

4.   The table below shows the number of valid cardholders in the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme as of close of business on Tuesday 31 January 2023, broken down by local authority area. Please note that this information is based on live data and so will exclude those who have turned 22 or exited the scheme since its launch. This information was supplied by the National Entitlement Card Programme Office (NECPO). NECPO support the 32 local authorities by assisting with the integration of various national and local public services on the National Entitlement Card (NEC) and are the joint controller with local authorities of this data.

The estimated eligible population refers to the number of people aged 5-21 who have become eligible for concessionary travel as a result of the Young Person’s Scheme, not including those under-22s already eligible for free bus travel through the disability criteria of the Older and Disabled Persons Scheme. These figures are derived from National Records of Scotland Mid Year Population estimates for 2021, and are adjusted to take into account the fact that the scheme became operational in 2022.

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at http://www.gov.scot/foi-responses .

Please quote the FOI reference Central Enquiry Unit Email: [email protected] Phone: 0300 244 4000

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Scottish government ends free bus travel for asylum seekers: 'Disappointing and devastating'

Free bus travel boosted mental health and integration for asylum seekers, refugee organisations said. But the Scottish government has ended a £2million pilot

Asylum seekers were given free bus travel in Scotland under a pilot scheme. Image: V267 ESX/Flickr

Refugee organisations have criticised the Scottish government’s “disappointing and devastating” decision to end free bus travel for asylum seekers.

The scheme provided a “glimpse of hope for the future” for asylum seekers, said the leader of one charity, as the government decided to end a pilot which had run since October 2023.

Free travel reduced isolation, enhanced integration, and improved health and wellbeing for asylum seekers – who are unable to work and survive on less than £50 a week – said Ekta Marwaha, chief executive of Refugee Sanctuary Scotland.

“It is concerning and disappointing to hear this news today and we are sorry to all the asylum seekers who had been shown a glimpse of hope for the future,” Marwaha told the Big Issue.

STATEMENT ON FREE BUS TRAVEL We are extremely disappointed with the announcement by the Scottish Government to scrap the commitment to implement the Free Bus Travel pilot scheme for people seeking asylum in Scotland. @scotgov @FionaHyslop pic.twitter.com/8f2BcL5a09 — Maryhill Integration Network (@Maryhill_IN) August 19, 2024

Announced in October 2023 with £2m of funding, Scotland’s initiative inspired similar calls across the country. Oxfordshire County Council was considering bus travel for asylum seekers as of June , with one Green Party councillor branding it “performative cruelty” to deny them a bus pass.

A campaign in London has pushed Sadiq Khan to adopt a similar policy, and at a protest in February asylum seekers told the Big Issue they had missed dental appointments and struggled with education as they were unable to travel.

Scotland’s is not the only government-backed scheme to be rolled back. In Wales, a “Welcome Ticket” scheme for buses and trains which had run since March 2022 ended on 31 March – but the Welsh government said it planned a future replacement.

“This decision will have a significant negative impact for people seeking asylum in Scotland. For some, it was a last ray of hope under such difficult and hostile policies,” said the Maryhill Integration Network on X as it shared the news.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said:   “The Scottish government is having to make very difficult decisions to deliver balanced and sustainable spending plans for the 2024-25 financial year, therefore it is unaffordable to progress piloting free bus travel for all people seeking asylum in Scotland. 

“People seeking asylum in Scotland who are currently eligible for free bus travel through the National Concessionary Travel Schemes, including those under 22 and over 60 years of age and those with disabilities, will continue to be able to make use of their entitlement. 

“We remain committed to supporting people seeking asylum, refugees and communities through the New Scots refugee integration strategy approach. We want to work collaboratively with the UK government to contribute ideas that build on shared priorities and where possible provide evidence of impacts and needs. By working together and sharing learning, there is great potential for tangible improvements to be made for refugees and people seeking asylum living in the UK.”

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State pensioners who have lost the £300 Winter Fuel Payment have been warned the new Labour Party government could axe free bus passes and travel next. Warnings are emanating from campaigners who are concerned the government could target OAP benefits further.

Dennis Reed of the campaign group Silver Voices warned: “The bus service and bus passes are really essential for older people. We say, ‘Hands off the bus pass.’” He said: “We certainly feel that older people are being targeted by the Government.”

Free bus travel helped older people escape isolation and attend GP and hospital appointments, he said, adding he fears older people are seen by the Government as “low-hanging fruit”. Mr Reed added: “We hope the protests will mount and mount and mount before the party conferences.”

READ MORE UK households who keep onions in their kitchen 'warned'

The Department for Transport insists it has “no plans” to withdraw free bus passes but Mr Reed said there is a “lot of concern” about the future of entitlements. Mr Reed said: “We’ve got to mount a really strong campaign on this one to show older people are not a pushover.”

9.9 million pensioners no longer qualify for the winter fuel payment after the government announced it was restricting it in England and Wales. Campaigners have warned that this figure includes up to 2 million struggling older people who could lose out on up to £300 a year after the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, limited the payment to only the poorest pensioners.

Under the new rules, being in receipt of pension credit is the main benefit that will qualify older people. However, about 800,000 pensioners who are eligible do not receive it, Age UK said, while a similar number have weekly incomes that are less than £50 a week above the poverty line.

Those eligible will receive £200, or £300 for those aged over 80. Winter fuel payments are devolved in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

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Train travel is booming in Europe right now - here's everything you need to know about Eurail Passes

By Jemima Skelley | 3 days ago

Taking a trip around Europe is one of those things that everyone should do at least once.

And whether you dream of soaking up the sun on a Mediterranean beach, hitting the ski slopes in the Alps, or city-hopping across the continent, the best way to see Europe is by train .

The continent is extremely well-connected by rail , and there are a ton of options to choose from. One of the most popular - and for good reason - is the Eurail Pass.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about getting around the Europe summer hotspots

The Eurail Global Pass allows you to get unlimited train travel across much of the continent. You can board most of the trains by showing the pass, however, there are a few exceptions where a reservation is needed before you board.

One pass will get you access to 35 railway carriers across 33,000 stations in 33 countries in Europe. These trains take you to well-known landmarks and off-the-beaten-track destinations, so it's easy to build out an itinerary tailored to your trip.

"Travel by rail across the European continent is booming in popularity right now, as travellers seek more sustainable, comfortable and convenient means of transport," Hugo Van Vondelen, Product Specialist at Eurail tells 9Travel.

READ MORE: Travel expert shares number one must-have item for trip to Japan

If travelling on faster trains, it is not uncommon to cross two or three countries in one day or even several hours. When travelling slowly, with regional trains, there are countless small towns for adventurous travellers to explore.

Eurail is also an easy jumping-off point for solo travellers or first-timers to Europe who aren't sure where to start.

Here are the most important things to know about Eurailing. 

Embracing slow travel with Eurail

The best thing about travelling by train is that it's a relaxing and low-key way to see a country - no need to worry about airline bookings and security lines.

"Travelling by train affords you the luxury to experience Europe at your own pace and allows you to truly witness the landscape change as your train rolls through each destination," says Hugo. "The slower you travel, the more connected you are to your surroundings."

Slow travel also means making your itinerary up on the fly - flexibility that comes with a Eurail pass, but not so much with pre-booked flights.

"If a small town is better than you expected or you befriend some fellow travellers, you can take a later train without worrying about a fixed seat booking," says Hugo

With a Eurail pass, you can access local trains which visit smaller towns, and international trains that go between big cities. 

"Local trains allow you to experience the culture in a more authentic way, whereas fast (international) trains are better for long-distance travel."

READ MORE: Eight things about Perth that will surprise first-timers

Tips for first-time solo travellers

If you're just getting used to travelling on your own, Eurail is a great way to ease into it.

The benefit of travelling with a Eurail Pass is having access to the Eurail Rail Planner app, which makes planning journeys easy – travellers can check train times, explore alternative journey options (regional trains can often be cheaper and more scenic), and map out off-the-beaten-path day trips to explore lesser-visited and more authentic parts of Europe.

Be flexible with your travel dates and times, the Eurail Pass is designed for a bit of spontaneity!

READ MORE: Flight attendant shares top 'icks' when it comes to couples travelling together

How does the Eurail Pass work?

It's as simple as buying the pass online and selecting the time frame you want to travel for. Options range from a three-month unlimited pass to one that just covers four days of travel in a month.

When you order your Eurail Global Pass, you will receive an information booklet that gives you more details.

If you are under age 27, you can apply for the Eurail Global Pass for Youths, which will save you 20 per cent on your ticket.

Which countries can I use Eurail?

The Eurail Pass covers train travel in 33 countries - Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Wales.

Can foreigners use Eurail?

Eurail Passes are for non-European residents. So if you're an Aussie visiting Europe, you're able to purchase one. 

What is not covered in the Eurail Pass?

Eurail just covers trains, so buses, trams, metros and other forms of public transport aren't included in your pass.

Overnight trains, Eurostar trains, and high-speed trains usually require you to make a seat reservation, rather than just turning up. 

Can you sleep on Eurail?

Night train travel is available to Eurail Pass holders with a supplement. A great benefit of travelling overnight is that you'll be able to save money on accommodation. Just be sure you plan in advance as these overnight seats can get snapped up quickly.

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Travelling with a companion

If you need to travel with a companion, you need to have a card with the C+1 logo on it. 

If your card has this logo, your companion can travel with you for free. Your companion cannot use the card without you.

When you apply for your card , you need to give extra information to show you qualify for a companion.

Who can get free travel for a companion

You can get free travel for a companion if you:

• get Attendance Allowance  
• get the standard or enhanced rate of daily living component of Personal Independence Payment  
• get the higher or middle rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance 
• get the higher or middle rate of the care component of Child Disability Payment  
• get the standard or enhanced rate of the daily living component of Adult Disability Payment 
• get Pension Age Disability Payment 
• get War Pensions Constant Attendance Allowance
• have confirmation that you are registered blind or severely sight impaired

If you live in a care or residential home or hospital and your benefit has been suspended, you can still get a companion card. You will need to get a letter from the care home or hospital that confirms that you:

• are eligible for the benefit
• live in the care home or hospital
• receive 24 hour care

Visit the Transport Scotland website for more information on free travel for companions .

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