CYP Now - Scrapping London's free travel schemes could shut out disadvantaged teens, campaigners warn

College leaders are calling for free and discounted travel schemes in London not to be scrapped to avoid shutting out the most disadvantaged young people.

Disadvantaged teenagers risk being excluded from training opportunities if free and discounted travel schemes are scrapped, college leaders warn. Picture: Adobe Stock

The Association of Colleges (AoC), backed by college leaders across the capital, has written to transport secretary Grant Shapps urging him to save the 16+ Oyster card to help young people struggling financially due to the Covid-19 crisis.

The scheme, due to be lost under a new deal struck between the government and Transport for London, offers free travel for 16- and 17-year olds on buses and trams and tube fares at a 50 per cent discounted rate.

The coalition is also backing a campaign led by the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) for the reinstatement of free travel for all under 18s.

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