Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to increase the accessibility of public transport for (a) young people and (b) students.

Accessibility and inclusivity are key considerations for the government, especially as we seek to deliver against our key missions, including removing barriers to opportunity and delivering safer streets. The government is committed to making transport safer, more inclusive and accessible to everyone – young and old alike – allowing them to live healthy lives, making the journeys they want and need.

The Bus Services (No.2) Bill was introduced on 17 December and includes measures to make the design of bus and coach stations and stops more inclusive and sets requirements for training for staff on disability-assistance and disability-awareness to ensure bus drivers and staff dealing directly with the travelling public are better informed of the rights and needs of disabled passengers.

Delivering reliable and affordable public transport services is one of the government’s top priorities and we know how important this is for passengers and for local growth. The government is investing over £150 million to deliver a new £3 cap on single bus fares in England outside London from 1 January until 31 December 2025, to help millions access better opportunities and promote greater bus use by passengers. Moving forward, the government will also explore more targeted options that deliver value for money to the taxpayer, to ensure affordable bus travel is always available for the groups who need it the most – such as young people.

There are a range of discounts available to young people and students to help with the cost of rail travel. For example, all children under 16 receive 50% off all adult fares, and the 16-17 Saver extends this to 16 and 17-year-olds. For students aged 18 and above, the 16-25 Railcard offers a third off most rail travel.