Burnham scraps restrictions on disabled people’s bus passes in England
Summary
From April 2027, disabled people in England will be able to use their free bus passes at any time of day. This policy, led by Mayor Andy Burnham and supported by the government, aims to make bus travel more accessible and affordable for disabled people across the country.Key Facts
- Disabled bus pass holders currently can only use their passes between 9:30 a.m. and 11 p.m. on weekdays in England.
- Starting April 1, 2027, these time limits will be removed, allowing free bus travel all day and night.
- Andy Burnham provided £60 million in funding for this change, with £40 million from the Department for Work and Pensions and £20 million from the Department for Transport.
- The policy has been in place in Greater Manchester since March and will now apply nationwide.
- The government says the change will help disabled people access work, education, healthcare, and reduce living costs.
- Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the move will end unequal support based on location.
- The government is also keeping a £2 bus fare cap throughout 2027 and will offer free bus travel to under-16s this summer.
- Disability charities and bus user groups praised the policy for promoting independence and reducing barriers.
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