A free bus pass can be invaluable for many people who need to get out and about, but without the associated costs. Whether it is attending hospital appointments, undertaking activities or simply doing the weekly shop, a free bus pass can often help. A free bus pass is usually an entitlement for older people who have reached a certain age.
In England, the free bus pass age is linked to the female state pension age, regardless of a person’s gender.
The rule appears to date back to a time before state pension age equalisation, which saw the retirement age for women increase from 60 to 65.
However, with the state pension age slowly rising once again, albeit in increments, those living in England are likely to have to wait longer to receive free bus travel.
Once again, for those who wish to check ahead of time, the Government’s postcode tool can help individuals find the rules according to their local council.
The only exception to the rule, though, is London, where older people can unlock what is known as a Freedom Pass.
The Freedom Pass provides older people with free travel on post public transport in London 24 hours a day, including at weekends and on public holidays.
It is available to individuals from the age of 60, but only applies to travel taken within London.
To be eligible for this Freedom Pass, aside from meeting the age requirement, a person’s sole or principal residence must be in the capital.
The Government, however, has also pointed individuals towards an additional transport service designed to help older people and those who need additional assistance.
Community transport services and Shopmobility can be found in different places for transport needs.
The Government explains: “Many areas have community transport services for people who have difficult using public transport.
“These include door-to-door transport and trips to shopping centres.”
Similar to the older person’s bus pass, the Government has also developed a tool to help individuals interested.
All Britons will need to do is enter their postcode to see if help is at hand in their area.
This service, however, is only available in England and Wales.
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