Enhanced travel for 25,000 older and disabled residents to be continued

Thousands of older and disabled residents will continue to benefit from free and enhanced bus and rail travel in North Lincolnshire next year – helping people stay independent, connected and active.

The proposal locks in free off-peak bus travel plus North Lincolnshire’s long-standing discretionary extras, including:

• Free bus travel before 9.30am and after 11pm for local passholders
• Discounted local rail fares, and in many cases free local rail travel
• Companion passes for disabled residents who need support to travel.

These go well beyond the national minimum national standards and have been protected since first being introduced in 2017.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is about protecting the things that matter most to local people. Thousands of older and disabled residents depend on free travel to stay independent – to get to the shops, attend medical appointments, see friends and family and remain part of their communities.

“Since 2017 we’ve always chosen to go further than the minimum because it’s the right thing to do. This new scheme keeps that commitment firmly in place.”

The concessionary offer supports more than 25,000 local passholders, giving them freedom to travel without worrying about costs or rigid timetables.

And comes alongside a raft of support backing thousands of older residents with practical help to cut bills, stay healthy and remain connected through the colder months.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “Accessible, affordable travel changes lives. Whether it’s attending vital appointments, staying physically active or simply getting out for a coffee, this support keeps people connected and reduces the risk of isolation.

“We’re safeguarding this help for the year ahead, giving residents certainty at a time when household budgets are under real pressure.”

The draft scheme has been published today, giving bus operators the chance to comment before the final scheme is confirmed ahead of 1 April. Consultation with operators is the next step, with the final decision due in early March 2026.