Andy Burnham announces removal of time restrictions on disabled bus passes across England

Andy Burnham has confirmed a significant change for disabled bus pass holders in England. The Labour Party government Prime Minister announced that from next April, disabled people will be able to use their free bus passes at any time of day throughout England.

Currently, disabled bus passes are valid only between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays, unless local authorities choose to fund extended hours. For example, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority permanently lifted these time restrictions from March this year.

With £60 million in government funding, this nationwide change will allow disabled bus pass holders to travel free on buses at any time, regardless of their postcode. This move aims to make bus travel more accessible and flexible for disabled people, who often rely on it to access work, education, healthcare, and other essential services.

“Buses are a lifeline for so many people – making it easier to get to work, education and healthcare,” Burnham stated. “It’s simply not right that many disabled people cannot travel using their pass during certain times of the day. So we’re fixing that. Disabled people will now have unlimited free bus travel 24/7.

“I did it before in Greater Manchester and I’m proud to do it now for the whole country. This is part of our ongoing action to bring back hope and give people some much-needed breathing space on the cost of living.”

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden added: “For too long, disabled people have held a free bus pass in their pocket that didn’t always get them to work.

“Now we’re changing that. By removing these time restrictions, we’re helping disabled people access jobs, training, and other opportunities at any time of the day.

“Alongside our £3.5 billion investment in tailored employment support, this change shows we’re serious about breaking down the barriers that have held disabled people back for too long.”