Care Leavers Week – Free bus travel for care leavers initiative launched by regional Mayor

The announcement was made by Dan Norris, Mayor of the West of England, as Care Leavers Week begins.

Children growing up in care are three times less likely to be in education, employment, or training than other young people their age. They are also more prone to feeling cut off, lonely and isolated, with almost one in five saying they felt lonely always or often, say Barnado's.

Designed for 18- to 21-year-old young care leavers living in the region, the new West of England and North Somerset-wide bus scheme will provide free travel across the West’s 350-plus square mile network - making it one of the largest schemes of its kind in the UK.

It is hoped this will allow the young people better access to work or study, getting to appointments, the shops or days out. The young people will apply for a WESTpass online for their free travel via www.westfares.co.uk.

Feedback from the young people receiving the new bus pass has been overwhelmingly positive.

The Mayor says he was first approached by Barnardo's about the travel challenges facing young care leavers last year and then discussed it with local organisations including 1625 Independent People.

Mayor Norris said: "Leaving care can be a really challenging and daunting time for young people. It’s especially tough in a cost-of-living crisis.

"I hope this free bus pass is a supportive helping hand as these young people head out on their next journey.”

Mr Norris made the announcement aboard a WESTlink alongside care leavers who will benefit from their free WESTpass at Bristol Zoo Project, highlighting how young people can use their free WESTpass for more days out, and generally to get out and explore and enjoy the region.

Justin Morris, Chief Executive Officer at Bristol Zoological Society, which runs Bristol Zoo Project, added: “We are really pleased to support this initiative, which will bring so many benefits to care leavers in the West of England. 

"Public transport and active travel are key elements of our plans to create a new conservation zoo at Bristol Zoo Project, aiming to make our attraction even more accessible to as many people as possible.”

The scheme has been welcomed by children's charities, including Barnado’s, who have called it a 'lifeline' for care leavers in the region, the Children’s Society plus local organisations too.

Duncan Stanway, Assistant Director, Barnardo’s says: “We are absolutely delighted that the Mayor of the West of England will be offering care leavers free bus travel. Since 2022, Barnardo's Transport for Freedom campaign has been calling for transport authorities to create bespoke schemes for care leavers who are struggling with the cost-of-living and do not have the 'bank of mum and dad' to top up their fare. 

"This new scheme will be a lifeline for care leavers across the West of England, many of whom rely on public transport to access education and employment or to visit friends and family. We hope that other local places look at this innovative support and roll-out their own schemes.”

Rebecca Ball, Programme Manager at West of England charity 1625 Independent People, added: “Travel costs can be a significant challenge for our young people when it comes to accessing and sustaining work or education, as well as connecting with interests and hobbies that they value highly. 

"We would like to say a huge thank you for all involved in making this happen for care-experienced young people."

This initiative is part of the Bus Service Improvement Plan, delivered by the West of England Combined Authority in conjunction with North Somerset thanks to funding from the UK Government’s Department for Transport.