Eligible disabled bus-pass holders across England were told on 18 August 2026 that time restrictions on concessionary passes would be lifted from 1 April 2027, allowing free bus travel at any time of day, according to the government announcement. The plan was backed by £60 million, comprising a £40 million contribution from the Department for Work and Pensions and £20 million from the Department for Transport, drawn from existing budgets.

Currently, disabled bus passes are valid only between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays unless local authorities fund an extension; Greater Manchester Combined Authority permanently lifted its restrictions in March 2026. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the change would give disabled people unlimited free bus travel, while Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said it would end a postcode lottery. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden linked it to £3.5 billion in tailored employment support.

Mencap, Scope and Bus Users UK welcomed the plan. Eligibility is set out in the Transport Act 2000, with seven statutory categories of disability; local authorities assess applications. The announcement also cited a £2 bus fare cap through 2027 and free local bus travel for under-16s during the summer.