Hertfordshire County Council has announced that care-experienced young people aged 18 to 25 in Watford, Hertfordshire, will receive free unlimited bus travel starting in early March 2026. This 12-month trial aims to help around 1,000 young adults across the county reach work, education, and social support without the burden of travel costs.
The scheme will provide a 100 per cent discount on tickets through the county’s bus app. Eligible residents will be contacted directly with details on how to sign up for the service before the project begins next month.
The travel tickets, managed by the Intalink Partnership, usually cost around £32.50 for a weekly pass that covers all zones. This means the new trial could save frequent bus users more than £1,600 over the course of the year.
The move follows a decision by the council in April 2024 to recognise care experience as a protected characteristic to help stop discrimination against those who have been in the care system. The council also recently agreed to pay back council tax for care leavers until they reach the age of 25.
Council Leader Cllr Steve Jarvis said the project is a major investment in helping young adults who have left the care system. Members of the Hertfordshire Children in Care Council have welcomed the move, stating it will help people maintain relationships and find jobs more easily.
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