Council to vote on under-18s free travel scheme

A pilot scheme to provide free bus and tram travel for thousands of children and young people in Sheffield will be put to councillors next week.

The aim is to improve access to education, training, work and leisure opportunities.

The proposal has been developed by Sheffield City Council, working alongside the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

If approved, the pilot would run from 15 February 2027, the start of the February half-term, to 5 September, and would be offered to Sheffield residents aged 5-18.

Eligible youngsters would use a dedicated smartcard travel pass similar to the existing Barnsley MiCard scheme.

Steve Kay, Director of Belonging at Sheffield City Council, said: "We know that transport costs can be a real barrier, making it harder for some young people to access education, training, work, sports, leisure and social opportunities.

"We're already seeing in Barnsley how much of a difference free travel can make.

"It's helping young people get to college, see friends and family, and make the most of opportunities without worrying about the cost of getting home."

The council said the pilot could also support greater independence for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, as part of its Freedom to Travel - Skills for Life programme, which helps young people develop the skills and confidence to travel.

Those who already have a Zoom pass, under-16 or 16-18 travel pass would automatically receive a new pass, while others would be able to apply online.

The plan will go before Sheffield City Council's Strategy and Resources Policy Committee on 2 September.

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