What’s happening?
Thanks to a brand new initiative led by Mayor Helen Godwin and funded through the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA), all children and young people aged 5–15 in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire can ride regional buses for free during the upcoming school holidays. No bus pass or pre-registration is required—kids just hop on! Read more here.
Why is this great for safeguarding?
Promotes independence & social interaction – Children can visit friends, attend community activities, and take part in holiday events, giving families practical support and boosting children’s wellbeing.
Increases community inclusion – Easier access to parks, museums, libraries, and cultural venues helps nurture social development and cultural learning.
Supports vulnerable families – By reducing the cost of travel, the scheme tackles long-standing barriers to engagement.
What’s involved?
Dates: 19 July – 5 September 2025, covering all main commercial and supported bus services across the West of England + North Somerset (excluding some airport routes).
Who qualifies: Children aged 5 to 15 inclusive. Those under 5 already travel free, and care leavers up to age 25 already have free travel year-round.
Supported by: Leading bus operators—Bath Bus Company, First Bus, Stagecoach, Big Lemon—and an expansion of zero-emission electric buses.
Funding and future plans
Backed by £13.5 million in Bus Grant funding from the Department for Transport.
Follows recent extensions of free bus travel: all-year access for care leavers (up to 25) and enhanced services thanks to a £752 million boost in West of England transport funding.
Voices from across the region
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England:
“It’s right that we help people save money and encourage greener travel… With free travel for 150,000 kids, local families will more easily have busloads of fun.”
Kate Marsh, Head Teacher, Perry Court E‑ACT:
“Knowing that their children will travel for free… opens up a lot more options… increase their cultural capital… mental wellbeing as well as a benefit for their education.”
Leaders from regional councils echo the enthusiasm, highlighting financial relief, environmental benefits, community connection, and greater access to cultural landmarks.
Social Safeguarding:
Enhances connectedness—children can participate in holiday clubs, community groups, and cultural outings without financial barriers.
Emotional & Mental Wellbeing:
Freedom to explore and spend time socially reduces isolation, especially during long school holidays.
Safety & Independence:
Encouraging judicious independent travel with familiar bus routes helps build confidence in a safe, structured environment.
Equity & Access:
Levels the playing field—children from low-income families gain full access to public spaces and educational opportunities.
If you’re part of a school, club, or safeguarding team:
Spread the word: Include this opportunity in newsletters, emails, and social media messages to parents and carers.
Plan group outings: Coordinate trips to local parks, museums, libraries, or summer programmes—all accessible by bus.
Offer guidance: Provide children with resource packs on bus routes, safety protocols, and etiquette.
Support independence: Encourage older children to plan and navigate short bus journeys under supervision.