New calls to extend free bus travel for older people to cover every nation across the UK

A new online petition is calling for the concessionary bus pass for people of State Pension age to be extended to cover travel across all parts of the UK. Petition creator, Charles David Smith, argues that giving older people the option to travel for free across Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland would “enhance their lives”.

The ‘Negotiate UK-wide recognition of older person’s bus passes’ petition, has been posted on the petitions-parliament website here and states: “We believe the UK Government should negotiate reciprocal agreements with the devolved administrations of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to allow the recognition and use of older person’s bus passes across the whole of the UK.”

It adds: “Allow those of limited means to enhance their lives with free travel.” At 10,000 signatures of support, it would be entitled to a response from the UK Government and at 100,000 it would be considered by the Petitions Committee for debate in Parliament.

People aged 60 and over are also eligible for the Senior Railcard, which offers a third off rail travel. It costs £30 for one year or £70 for three years.

National Entitlement Card in Scotland

In Scotland, people over 60 are eligible to apply for the National Entitlement Card (NEC), which is administered by the Scottish Government. It is Scotland’s National Smartcard, offering access to many public services across the country.

The card gives elderly and disabled people free bus travel across Scotland and, through the Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme, also provides reductions on train, Subway and ferry fares.

The NEC is valid for up to three years, but in a change to the renewal process, SPT no longer sends out renewal forms to disabled card holders. This means everyone with a card – sometimes referred to as a ‘Saltire card’ – should check the expiry date to make sure they will be able to enjoy uninterrupted entitlement to travel concessions.

SPT recommends applying for a renewal card at least five weeks before the expiry date. It’s also important to be aware that guidance on the SPT website states that the Concessionary Travel Card Unit at Buchanan Bus Station will be closed for in person applications until further notice.

Join the Daily Record’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.