Approximately one hundred and fifty thousand young people aged five to fifteen are eligible for this initiative, which aims to make public transport more accessible and affordable for families.
00:00This summer, something exciting is happening across the west of England.
00:05Children under 16 can now travel for free on buses throughout Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset for the summer.
00:17Approximately 150,000 young people aged 5 to 15 are eligible for this initiative, which aims to make public transport more accessible.
00:27Bristol has one of the busiest transport networks in the southwest, with over 30 million bus journeys made each year across the city and surrounding areas.
00:39But like many UK cities, it also faces challenges, traffic congestion, high emissions and a heavy reliance on private cars.
00:47By encouraging more children to use buses from an early age, the city is not only easing pressure on the roads, but also building a generation more comfortable with sustainable travel.
00:58Having young people on buses isn't just practical, it's also a long-term investment.
01:04Early exposure to public transport helps children gain independence, reduces parental taxi runs and instils environmentally friendly habits that can last a lifetime.
01:14It also supports social inclusion, giving young people easier access to education, activities and cultural spaces without financial barriers.
01:25More young passengers today could mean a greener, more connected Bristol tomorrow.
01:31Whether it's a trip to the library, a visit to the park or heading to a summer activity,
01:36this scheme is designed to encourage young people to explore their local community and reduce car dependency.
01:44This scheme is designed to encourage young people to explore their local community and reduce car dependency.