Free bus travel scheme delivers for older and disabled people

Independent evaluation highlights benefits for health and reducing the cost of living

An independent evaluation of Scotland's National Concessionary Travel Scheme for Older and Disabled People has found the scheme continues to deliver significant benefits for cardholders, helping people save money, stay connected and live more independent lives.

The evaluation, commissioned by Transport Scotland, gathered views from more than 2,500 concessionary travel cardholders and found high levels of satisfaction with the scheme. Overall, 94% of respondents said they were either very or fairly satisfied, while 93% agreed the scheme had saved them money over the last 12 months.

Though there are differences in some results by card type, the evaluation found overall that the scheme is helping to encourage greater bus use, reduce reliance on private cars and improve wellbeing. More than four in five respondents (81%) reported using the bus more often because of the scheme, while 61% said they used a private car less often. The research also found positive impacts on physical health, mental health and tackling social isolation.

The findings also highlighted the importance of reliable and accessible bus services, with respondents identifying service availability and quality as key factors influencing how often they travel by bus.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport Stephen Flynn said:

For two decades, Scotland's concessionary travel scheme has helped older and disabled people stay connected to their communities, access essential services and maintain their independence.

This evaluation confirms just how valued the scheme is by the people who use it. The overwhelming majority of participants told researchers that it saves them money, helps them travel more often and improves their quality of life.

The findings also demonstrate the wider benefits of free bus travel. From reducing loneliness and social isolation to supporting healthier lifestyles and encouraging people to leave the car at home, the scheme is making a real difference to communities across Scotland.

I am proud that we’re delivering free bus travel for under 22s, while moving at pace to deliver a nationwide £2 fare cap by the end of this Parliament.

As we continue to improve bus services, these findings reinforce the importance of ensuring everyone can access reliable, affordable and accessible public transport, regardless of age, disability or where they live.