About 200,000 Young People Will Be Able to Apply for the Bus Pass
Plans to provide free bus travel for 11 to 16-year-olds across Greater Manchester are slated for approval today (November 13). About 200,000 young people are expected to apply for the newly introduced bus pass, called Our Pass 11-16, with applications opening on December 8. The scheme is anticipated to cost Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) around £20 million and will be finalized during a meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
Local officials highlight that this initiative could save families approximately £500 annually per child. The bus passes are expected to be operational starting Monday, January 4, 2027, and additional enforcement and safety officers will be deployed as part of the rollout.
Mayor Bev Craig emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Free, unlimited bus travel will make a big difference for so many families, helping to ease financial burdens.” She noted that this plan aligns with her commitment to improve the living conditions in Greater Manchester.
Eligibility and Application Process
Young people residing in Greater Manchester who begin secondary school are eligible for the pass. Here are the key points regarding eligibility and the application process:
- Eligibility: Children can apply starting the September they enter secondary school.
- Existing Pass Holders: Those with an existing ‘igo’ card will automatically receive the new Our Pass 11-16. They do not need to apply again and will be contacted via email by TfGM.
- New Applicants: For those without an igo card, an application is required to get the Our Pass 11-16 with a £10 administration fee.
Starting December 8, applications can be completed online, through the Bee Network app (for Year 9 and above), or via paper forms at local travel shops.
Additional Information
- Students in Years 7 and 8 will receive a physical Our Pass 11-16 card, while those in Years 9 to 11 can choose between a physical card and a digital version.
- All passholders must reapply before starting Year 9 to maintain their eligibility and opt for a digital pass.
- Passholders enjoy unlimited travel on all buses across Greater Manchester, including school services, by showing their Our Pass 11-16 card upon boarding.
This initiative represents a significant step towards making public transport more accessible for young residents in Greater Manchester, aiming to foster opportunities and ease financial stress on families.
