The Department for Transport and Ministry of Defence announced on 12 September 2026 that, for the first time, one next of kin of a service person who died while serving would be able to travel free of charge on National Rail services across Britain on 7 and 8 November 2026. The offer was intended to help families attend Remembrance services and commemorative events, including at the Cenotaph, without travel costs being a barrier. Eligible family members had until 16 October 2026 to apply through the Defence Medical Welfare Service. The ministry said hundreds of bereaved military family members would be able to take part.

Rail Minister Lord Hendy said bereaved families were at the heart of the commemorations and that the cost of travel should not prevent them from attending. Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey said the offer would help bereaved relatives honour loved ones without financial barriers. The move built on an existing free travel offer for serving personnel and veterans.

Mikki Brett, widow of the late Chief Petty Officer Stuart Brett, who died in service in April 2023, welcomed the news and said she was already registered to attend the Cenotaph. The Rail Delivery Group's co-CEO Ola Ogun said the industry was pleased to extend its support this year to one next of kin, while SSAFA said the decision meant bereaved families could pay their respects without financial strain.