New travel concession offers half-price bus and tram travel for care leavers in London

Care leavers aged 18 to 25 in London can now access half-price bus and tram travel with the launch of a new travel concession, announced by Transport for London‘s (TfL) Commissioner, Andy Lord. The initiative, unveiled by Mayor Sadiq Khan in October 2023, aims to aid the transition to independent living for 15,000 to 16,000 care leavers across the city.

Part of the Pan London Care Leavers’ Compact, the concession reflects a collaborative effort with care-experienced young people, TfL, London boroughs and health services. Recognising the challenges care leavers face, with nearly 42% nationally not in education, employment, or training, the initiative seeks to provide essential support.

Eligible applicants can benefit from the Mayor’s Hopper fare, allowing unlimited bus and tram journeys within an hour for the price of a single journey. The fare freeze until March 2025 further alleviates financial pressures exacerbated by the pandemic.

To streamline eligibility checks and applications, TfL collaborates with London Councils through the London Innovation and Improvement Alliance (LIIA). The initiative has received praise from community leaders and care support professionals, who highlight its potential to empower care leavers and foster inclusivity.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Many care leavers lack the resources needed to continue training or gain meaningful employment once leaving care, which can, in turn, lead to both financial and emotional hardship. That’s why I’m pleased to announce that my new care leavers travel concession has opened for applications, meaning care leavers aged between 18 and 25 who live in London can apply for half-price bus and tram travel.”

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Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to launch this new concession, which will directly support those Londoners leaving care and help them transition into independent living in the capital.”

Zhane Decembre and Louisa Foyle from the Pan London Children in Care Council at Partnership for Young London, said: “This initiative not only eases the financial burden on care leavers but also fosters a sense of acceptance and recognition within society. It’s a positive stride towards improving their access to essential transportation services.”

The initiative marks a milestone in London’s commitment to inclusivity and supporting its most vulnerable residents. It represents a tangible step towards creating a more equitable environment for young adults striving to build independent lives. 

For further details on eligibility and application procedures, individuals are encouraged to visit TfL’s website or contact local authorities for assistance.