West Sussex's 16 to 20 year olds will soon be able to qualify for a discounted bus fare with the launch of a new ‘16 to 20 Bus Saver’ scheme.
The County Council announced the scheme on Friday (October 20) together with local bus operators, saying it was funded by the Department for Transport.
As of yesterday (Sunday), young people can receive the new discounted bus fares if their journey starts or finishes anywhere within West Sussex.
The "16 to 20 Bus Saver" means young people can benefit from reduced child rate fares offered by their local bus operator.
Cllr Joy Dennis, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said:
"When young people reach the age of 16, they usually stop qualifying for the cheaper child-rate tickets when travelling on the bus, and often end up having to pay an adult fare.
"This new scheme means young people can continue to receive a discount right up until the day before their 21st birthday, giving them the freedom to travel for less — whether it’s getting to college or university, attending a job interview, traveling to work, or meeting up with friends."
The local authority said the new scheme is expected to run until March 2025 and could be extended by bus operators if successful.
To get the discount, young people just need to show a valid ID or a Citizencard.
Joy added:
"We want to help young people become more independent and fulfil their potential and a key focus of Our Council Plan is to enable active travel and access to education, employment and services for our residents.
"The new '16 to 20 Bus Saver' not only helps us to do this but it also provides a more affordable and environmentally friendly travel option for young people."
For more information on the new ‘16 to 20 Bus Saver’ scheme, visit: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/16to20BusSaver
The council added that the Government’s extended £2 Bus Fare Cap scheme is separate from the new "16 to 20 Bus Saver" discount.
Young people are encouraged to plan their travel ahead and check with the bus operator which fare offers them the best value for money.
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