Under 22 free bus travel reminder

Orkney Islands Council is reminding households that all young people aged under 22 can travel on public buses for free in Orkney and right across Scotland with a National Entitlement Card, or with free travel added to their Young Scot card.

The Council is aware some people have had trouble applying online for the free bus travel, for example due to not having all the forms of ID required, or digital/device issues.

Laura Cromarty is the Council’s Transportation Manager: “We’re keen to see every young person under 22 on board with this free travel - as every penny saved really counts for families at the moment. Anyone who has been unable to apply online, for whatever reason, is urged get in touch for assistance.

“Simply email our transport team in the first instance transport@orkney.gov.uk , including the young person’s name, address and date of birth, and a good contact number to get you back on. Or call the Council’s customer services team on 01856 87 35 35 who will be able to direct you.”

Cheryl Rafferty is Team Manager for the Council’s Youth Services: “Young people aged over 11 can opt for a Young Scot card and apply to have the free travel added to it. They can add the free travel online themselves once they turn 16. A Young Scot card is like a supercharged National Entitlement Card - it can double as proof of age for young people, and gives access to loads of discounts including at some supermarkets, which can of course be a huge help for household budgets.”

Find out more about free bus travel for Under 22’s at https://freebus.scot/