Kids Go Free Initiative
Overview:
The Kids Go Free program has successfully enabled children and young people to travel for free by bus during school holidays, significantly benefiting families, especially in lower-income communities. The initiative recorded an impressive increase in bus journeys, with lower-income areas seeing rises of 98% in the lowest 10% income brackets and 89% in the lowest 30%.
Key Statements:
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Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, expressed excitement about the program’s return and assured funding for three years. She highlighted the positive impact on families while allowing children to explore local attractions.
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Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, emphasized the national expansion of the program, which aims to alleviate living costs while promoting local tourism.
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A joint statement from local council leaders underscored the importance of the initiative, encouraging families to take advantage of the improved bus services.
Funding Details:
The free bus travel initiative is funded through the Bus Grant from the Department for Transport. Outside of this offer, child fares remain affordable, with a £1 cap frozen until 2029. Children under five travel free on most services.
Additionally, young people in care and care leavers will benefit from up to ten years of free bus travel, a substantial financial relief.
Contact and Additional Information:
- For updates, readers can contact Harry Mottram, the News Editor, at news@bathvoice.co.uk.
- The Bath Voice monthly newspaper is distributed free in thousands of homes and can be read online at issuu.com/bathvoice.
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