Free bus travel for eligible disabled people across England has been extended to be available all day every day.

Currently, disabled bus passes are only valid for travel between 9.30am and 11pm during weekdays - unless local authorities choose to fund an extension.

From 1 April 2027, people who hold a disabled bus pass will be able to travel on buses for free at any time of the day or week.

The government says this will help to open up access to workplaces, education, training, and other opportunities as well as helping to ease the cost of living.

The scheme is backed by £60 million of government funding.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: "Buses are a lifeline for so many people - making it easier to get to work, education and healthcare. It’s simply not right that many disabled people cannot travel using their pass during certain times of the day. So we’re fixing that. Disabled people will now have unlimited free bus travel 24/7.  

"I did it before in Greater Manchester and I’m proud to do it now for the whole country. This is part of our ongoing action to bring back hope and give people some much needed breathing space on the cost of living."

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "We’re putting an end to this postcode lottery, so disabled people can travel on buses for free whenever they need, wherever they live – unlocking opportunities and access to jobs, learning, and more.

"We are making this change because we’ve listened to disabled people, and we know the importance of buses to local communities. These passes are a lifeline for so many, helping them stay connected and get to work and appointments, and it’s only right they receive the same treatment, no matter their postcode."