Free bus travel for care leavers in Greater Manchester

Manchester City Council has announced that care leavers can now access free bus travel across Greater Manchester.

The free bus travel scheme will see the age limit raised from 21 to 25, and will be available for any Greater Manchester residents who have experienced care at some point in their lives.

Similar to the Our Pass ticket available to college and sixth-form students, the updated pass will also give access to other benefits including discounts, events, and activities.

The decision comes as part of a wider initiative to support young people into living more independent and secure lives after leaving care, making it easier for them to access work and training opportunities alongside education, personal appointments, and social activities.

“I’m proud that what first started as a two-year trial to help care leavers get around Greater Manchester for free is now a permanent scheme,” said Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.

“We know that young people leaving care often face difficulties as they settle into their adult lives and the rising cost-of-living presents a very real challenge for people on low incomes.

“By expanding the care leavers pass up to the age of 25 we are further enabling this group of young people to use Bee Network buses for free and access all of the education, work and social opportunities that they deserve.”