The Welsh Government has announced a major milestone in its transport policy, revealing that more than two million bus journeys have been taken by young people across Wales for just £1 since the launch of a landmark fare cap scheme. The initiative, which was introduced in September 2025, has been hailed as a transformative success in tackling the cost-of-living crisis and reducing barriers to education and employment for the younger generation.

Initially launched for those aged 16 to 21, the pilot program was recently extended in November 2025 to include children and young people aged 5 to 15. Under the scheme, eligible passengers can travel on any participating bus service for a single fare of £1, or opt for a £3 day ticket providing unlimited travel. The program is currently slated to run until the end of August 2026, supported by a £22 million investment across two financial years. This funding includes a vital £15 million secured through a budget agreement with Jane Dodds, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, celebrated the figures during a bus journey between Llangollen and Wrexham, where he met with young commuters directly benefiting from the reduced fares. 'It’s fantastic to see so many young people taking advantage of cheaper bus fares,' Skates remarked. 'We know that the cost of travel is often a barrier for young people, especially in rural areas, so I am delighted that our investment is making travel as accessible and affordable as possible. This scheme is already making a real difference to young people’s lives across Wales.'

The impact on individuals has been profound. Avery Stridgen, a 17-year-old student from North Wales, shared that the £1 fare has been a game-changer for her education and social life. 'The scheme has opened up more opportunities, enabling me to make and keep social connections and to get back and fore to college,' she said. 'I now use the bus more than I’ve done before, and it’s because of these cheaper fares.' Similarly, 17-year-old Liam Lennard from Prestatyn explained that the cap has made his commute to work in Rhyl financially viable, expressing hope that the arrangement becomes permanent.

First Minister Eluned Morgan emphasized the broader social implications of the policy, stating that no young person in Wales should feel 'cut off or isolated' due to transport costs. Industry leaders have also thrown their weight behind the statistics. Barclay Davies, Director for Wales at Bus Users UK, described the initiative as a 'vital lifeline out of poverty,' while Aaron Hill, Director of CPT Cymru, noted that every pound invested in bus services yields over £4 in benefits for the environment, public health, and local communities.

As the Welsh Government continues its broader push to bring bus services back under public control via the Bus Reform Bill, the success of the £1 pilot serves as a powerful proof-of-concept for a more integrated and affordable national transport network. For now, the focus remains on ensuring every eligible young person in Wales—many of whom require a 'MyTravelPass' for the 16-21 bracket—is aware of the savings available at the bus stop.