Southern Vectis have provided more information regarding a Government-funded initiative that will see children across the Isle of Wight able to travel on local buses for free throughout August, aimed at helping families with the cost of living during the school summer holidays.
The scheme will run from 1st August until 31st August, allowing children aged 5-15 to travel free on participating local bus services across England, including Southern Vectis routes on the Isle of Wight.
The scheme follows the Government’s wider Great British Summer Savings campaign, which is designed to reduce the cost of family days out.
The announcement comes after previous analysis suggested Isle of Wight families could save a combined £204,458 on bus fares during August if children make just 1 return bus journey per week, based on an average child fare of £1.50.
Southern Vectis Commercial Director, David Lee-King said:
“We have long said that buses are the perfect solution to helping reduce congestion on our roads, and improving the air we breathe here – so we are delighted the Government is echoing this way of thinking and making bus travel even more affordable this summer.
“Children aged five to 11 must be accompanied by an adult when travelling for free. However, those who are 11 to 15 years may travel alone. Single fares for adults are currently capped at £3.
“With fuel costs high, this scheme provides an extra incentive for local people to ease their cost of living during the summer holidays, by leaving their cars at home and opting for sustainable transport instead.
Article continues below this advertisement “We’re looking forward to welcoming many new customers on-board over the coming months.”
Children aged 5-11 must travel with a fare-paying adult, although concessionary pass holders will also count as fare-paying adults. When boarding, customers should tell the driver where they are travelling and how many children are with them so that free tickets can be issued.
Children aged 11-15 travelling independently should ask the driver for a free ticket when boarding, children aged 14 and 15 may be asked to prove their age by showing a birth certificate, passport or school pass for the 2025/2026 academic year.
Drivers will also accept a clear photograph of a birth certificate or passport on a mobile phone.
Anyone unable to verify their age when requested will be required to pay the appropriate fare.
The offer does not apply to all services, with routes including the Needles Breezer and Downs Breezer excluded from the scheme.
Full terms and conditions are available at www.islandbuses.info.
