Sheffield councillors are due to consider a pilot offering free bus and tram travel to children and young people, aiming to reduce the cost barriers to education, training, work and leisure. If approved, the proposal could broaden young residents’ access to opportunities and support greater independence, including for some young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

The scheme would apply to Sheffield residents aged five to 18 and run from 15 February 2027 until 5 September 2027. It has been developed with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and is modelled partly on Barnsley’s MiCard scheme; eligible users would receive a dedicated smartcard, with existing youth-pass holders transferred automatically. The council’s Strategy and Resources Policy Committee is scheduled to consider the report on 2 September.