Could you be eligible for free bus travel?

News Release PR9137 - published on 31 May 2024

People in Torbay who are eligible for a concessionary bus pass are being urged to make use of local services as part of a national campaign.

The ‘Take The Bus’ campaign launched by the Department for Transport and supported by Torbay Council locally in partnership with bus providers Stagecoach South West, Torbay Buses and Country Bus, is aimed at ensuring people are accessing services they are entitled to, encouraging active travel and improving wellbeing.

Councillor Adam Billings, Cabinet Member for Pride in Place, Transport and Parking for Torbay Council, said: “It’s essential that people who are eligible for free bus travel – for example those aged 66 and above, or those with disabilities who are eligible – know what they are entitled to so they can make full use of this service.

“Getting out and about is really important to support the wellbeing of older and disabled people. It also supports our local economy and helps our objectives of encouraging more sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions by giving people choice in how they travel.”

Peter Knight, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, said: "We are delighted to support the Take The Bus campaign. The concessionary bus pass opens up a wealth of opportunity for eligible holders to explore their local area and carry out day to day tasks while traveling sustainably. We look forward to working with our partners at Torbay Council to get people back on the bus. "

Ali Ellison from Country Bus said: “It is far less fuss when you take the bus.

“Travel for free with your Concessionary pass

“Or pay £2, it's not a lot of brass.”

Ben Banks, Transport Manager for Torbay Buses said: “With additional funding being made available as part of the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan and working in partnership with Torbay Council, Torbay Buses have been able to expand and improve services within Torbay. With added new technology making bus travel more accessible, dependable and predictable, we welcome new passengers to our services, particularly those that can take advantage of free travel using a concessionary bus pass. Not only do our bus services provide a vital transport link for our passengers but they also act as mini community-hubs on wheels.”

The campaign is being promoted across all Torbay Council channels including social media, web, newsletters, via the local press and advertising and supports the wider national campaign. It emphasises the benefits of what you can do when you take the bus with messages such as:

Enjoy the park without the parking.

#TakeTheBus for free with your concessionary pass.

Get togethers made easy when you #TakeTheBus.

Connect for free with your concessionary bus pass.

Coffee catch-ups with old friends or new faces.
#TakeTheBus for free with your concessionary pass.