More than a million older Londoners could be stripped of their right to free travel across the capital's transport network, as local authorities launch a major review of the costly Freedom Pass scheme.
Financial Strain Forces Review of 'Lifeline' Scheme
London Councils, the cross-party organisation representing the capital's 33 boroughs, has confirmed it will undertake a review of the Older Person's Freedom Pass. The primary driver is soaring cost, with the scheme predicted to hit £372 million annually from April – a sharp 12% increase on the previous year.
Stephen Boon, chief operating officer at London Councils, stated plainly to the London Standard: “It’s costing more than boroughs can afford.” The review aims to identify ways to significantly reduce this financial burden on local councils.
What is at Risk for London's Pensioners?
Currently, the Freedom Pass is a comprehensive travel concession for Londoners aged 66 and over. It provides:
- Free travel on all bus, tram, Tube, London Overground and Elizabeth line services at certain times.
- Free travel on some local rail services within London.
- Discounts on riverboat services and Santander Cycles.
For many of the 1.2 million eligible pensioners, this is not a mere perk but an essential tool for daily life. A 71-year-old Londoner, who survives on the state pension, has started a petition opposing the review. She describes the pass as granting “something invaluable—freedom,” enabling hospital visits, socialising, and staying connected to the community.
Options on the Table and National Comparisons
One clear option for cutting costs is to align London's scheme with those in other major UK cities. Mr Boon pointed out that the capital's offer is far more generous than elsewhere. In Manchester, for example, the older person's travel pass only covers free bus travel.
If London's Freedom Pass was restricted to free bus travel only, Mr Boon estimates the annual cost could be slashed to around £224 million. The review will lay out all possible options and their consequences for councillors to consider.
It is important to note that the separate Freedom Pass for Disabled People is not currently part of this review. Furthermore, Londoners aged 60 and over can still obtain a 60+ Oyster photocard for £20, which also provides free travel on Transport for London services.
The outcome of the review, which is set to begin soon, will be watched closely by nearly one and a quarter million older residents for whom the iconic Freedom Pass is a vital lifeline.
