Provide free bus travel for carers in Scotland
The Issue
I'm a registered carer for my wife and daughter, and like many carers in Scotland, I don't drive. Relying on public transportation is not a choice, but a necessity for me to fulfill my caring responsibilities. Unfortunately, the cost of bus travel eats into the already small amount of Scottish Carer's Payment that I receive each month, leaving little room for other essentials.
The Scottish Carer's Payment is meant to support those who dedicate their lives to caring for loved ones. However, it often falls short of covering even the basic costs associated with this vital role. One major expense is transportation. For carers without personal vehicles, frequent bus travel is essential for taking relatives to appointments, shopping for daily needs, or simply getting a respite from daily duties.
Offering free bus travel to carers would not only provide immediate financial relief but also recognize the invaluable contribution they make to our communities. Carers are the backbone of our society, offering unwavering support and love to those who need it most. Scotland has the opportunity to lead by example in caring for our carers, acknowledging their efforts by removing financial barriers that may hinder their caregiving ability.
According to national statistics, there are approximately 759,000 carers in Scotland, providing over 1.32 billion hours of unpaid care annually. The cost of extending free bus travel to registered carers would not only benefit them but also bring long-term savings to the health and social care systems, as reliable transportation helps prevent missed appointments and delays in receiving treatment.
We call on the Scottish Government to enact legislation that will provide free bus service to all registered carers. This act of kindness will bridge a critical gap in the support framework for carers, ensuring they are able to continue their essential work without the added strain of transportation costs.
Help make a difference in the lives of carers and those they care for. Sign this petition and advocate for free bus travel for Scotland's carers today.
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The Issue
I'm a registered carer for my wife and daughter, and like many carers in Scotland, I don't drive. Relying on public transportation is not a choice, but a necessity for me to fulfill my caring responsibilities. Unfortunately, the cost of bus travel eats into the already small amount of Scottish Carer's Payment that I receive each month, leaving little room for other essentials.
The Scottish Carer's Payment is meant to support those who dedicate their lives to caring for loved ones. However, it often falls short of covering even the basic costs associated with this vital role. One major expense is transportation. For carers without personal vehicles, frequent bus travel is essential for taking relatives to appointments, shopping for daily needs, or simply getting a respite from daily duties.
Offering free bus travel to carers would not only provide immediate financial relief but also recognize the invaluable contribution they make to our communities. Carers are the backbone of our society, offering unwavering support and love to those who need it most. Scotland has the opportunity to lead by example in caring for our carers, acknowledging their efforts by removing financial barriers that may hinder their caregiving ability.
According to national statistics, there are approximately 759,000 carers in Scotland, providing over 1.32 billion hours of unpaid care annually. The cost of extending free bus travel to registered carers would not only benefit them but also bring long-term savings to the health and social care systems, as reliable transportation helps prevent missed appointments and delays in receiving treatment.
We call on the Scottish Government to enact legislation that will provide free bus service to all registered carers. This act of kindness will bridge a critical gap in the support framework for carers, ensuring they are able to continue their essential work without the added strain of transportation costs.
Help make a difference in the lives of carers and those they care for. Sign this petition and advocate for free bus travel for Scotland's carers today.
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on 9 June 2026