Ross Greer MSP: Free bus pass for under-22s in Scotland is already a lifeline

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More than 3,000 young people across Argyll and Bute now have a card in their pocket which entitles them to travel by bus free of charge anywhere in Scotland.

Just a few years ago, the idea of free bus travel for all our young people was an idea I took to the Scottish Green Party’s annual conference – and now we have been able to deliver it for every young person across Scotland.

This is the sort of bold step forward that Scotland needs, for the sake of our young people, family budgets and the climate. With the cost-of-living crisis now really starting to bite, I am glad that the Greens have been in a position to offer some help through schemes like this.

These bus passes are already a lifeline for many young workers and carers, as well as students and others.

Young people under 22 can now travel free by bus anywhere in Scotland if they have a pass

To access free bus travel, you just need a new National Entitlement (Young Scot) card. Anyone from 5-21 who still hasn’t signed up can do so at any time at freebus.scot, and I’d strongly encourage them to do so.

Under 16s will need an adult to apply for them. You’ll need to provide a scan of ID and a proof of address, as well as a photograph that can be used for the card.

If you can’t sign up online or can’t provide proof, Argyll and Bute Council can help - email them on necteam@argyll-bute.gov.uk.

Buses are a vital part of our effort to reduce pollution and inequality and to recover from the pandemic. Free travel for under 22s is one step in a longer journey to make the bus network work in Scotland for our people and for the planet.

The pass is valid on all Helensburgh and Lomond's bus services

Another is bringing Scotland’s buses back into public ownership, so they are not operated in order to maximise the profits of a private company. We’re also taking steps towards this by setting up a new fund to support councils who want to look into running their own local bus services.

We have free bus travel for over-60s, and now for the under-22s as well. The Greens want to see fare-free public transport for all in Scotland eventually, as is the case in Estonia and Luxembourg. It’s achievable, but we recognise that it is also an ambitious goal.

Right now, though, we also want to see more investment in the services we already have. Buses should be clean, green, accessible and should also operate on a timetable which meets the needs of local communities.

That must also mean improving facilities at bus stops to provide live timetables and shelters to ensure that those waiting can stay safe and dry. even in challenging weather.