Disabled people across England will be able to travel on local buses for free at any time of day from 1 April 2027, following a major government announcement aimed at improving access to work, education, healthcare and training opportunities.
The change will remove existing time restrictions on concessionary bus passes for disabled passengers, ending the current rules that typically limit free travel to weekdays between 9.30am and 11pm unless local authorities fund additional concessions.
Backed by £60 million in government funding, the move will create a nationally consistent scheme, ensuring disabled bus pass holders receive the same level of support regardless of where they live.
The announcement builds on measures already introduced in some areas. Greater Manchester Combined Authority, for example, permanently removed time restrictions on disabled bus passes earlier this year.
The government says the new policy is designed to help disabled people access employment, training, education and healthcare more easily, while also easing financial pressures associated with the cost of living.
Speaking about the policy, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:
“Buses are a lifeline for so many people - making it easier to get to work, education and healthcare. It’s simply not right that many disabled people cannot travel using their pass during certain times of the day. So we’re fixing that. Disabled people will now have unlimited free bus travel 24/7.
“I did it before in Greater Manchester and I’m proud to do it now for the whole country. This is part of our ongoing action to bring back hope and give people some much needed breathing space on the cost of living.”
Officials believe the removal of time restrictions will help tackle one of the practical barriers disabled people can face when seeking work, particularly for those travelling outside traditional office hours.
The measure sits alongside broader welfare and employment reforms designed to help disabled people and those with health conditions enter, remain in, or return to work.
The government has highlighted its £3.5 billion investment in tailored employment support programmes, aimed at enabling people to fulfil their potential while reducing barriers to employment.
The announcement follows a series of measures focused on making public transport more affordable.
Bus fares will remain capped at £2 throughout 2027, helping passengers save on everyday travel costs. Meanwhile, children under 16 have been able to travel free on local buses during the summer period, providing additional support for families.
As part of wider transport reforms, ministers are also extending powers for local leaders through the Bus Services Act, giving communities greater control over bus networks and service standards.
The government says these changes will help improve reliability, strengthen local transport systems and ensure services better reflect community needs.
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