Thousands more kids will be travelling for free on buses after the North East Mayor announced today that Kids Go Free on public transport will be extended to cover all school holidays until September 2026.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has vowed to transform public transport in the region, making it far cheaper, easier and safer for local people, and providing better links to opportunities for work and education for all.
Kids Go Free was launched in July 2024 after the Mayor brought together local bus operators under a new region-wide scheme, initially for 12-months during the school holidays. It has helped thousands of families and young people reduce travel costs across the North East.
Following a successful roll-out across the North East (Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Northumberland), the Mayor has worked with local bus operators to extend the scheme during school holidays until at least September 2026.
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: “Kids Go Free is something I promised to deliver for local families and I have spoken to many parents who have told me that the scheme really helps them enjoy time with their children and save money.
“I am working to ensure everyone has access to affordable public transport in the North East and Kids Go Free is such a great way for families to get out and about, without the burden of extra transport costs.
“I am pleased to confirm that we’ve been working behind the scenes with bus operators to extend the scheme for as long as possible, so it will run across school holidays until at least September 2026. This is just the beginning of my vision to improve public transport for everyone in the North East.”
Area Director for Arriva North East Kim Cain, said: "Arriva North East is pleased to continue our involvement in the Kids Go Free initiative, supporting families and ensuring that travel across the North East remains accessible for young people.
“It's an important part of our commitment to the local community and we’re proud to work alongside other bus operators to make a difference."
Ben Maxfield, Business Director at Go North East and Chair of local operators' association NEBus, said: "Go North East is proud to continue our involvement with Kids Go Free, a great initiative that supports local communities across the region. This offer not only helps families travel more affordably but also promotes sustainable transport by making it easier for people to choose the bus over the car.
“Working alongside other bus operators, we're helping to build greener habits for the future, and delivering real value for our passengers today. I'm delighted to see this initiative gaining momentum and making a positive difference in our region."
Steve Walker, Managing Director of Stagecoach North East, said: “We are delighted to continue the partnership with the North East Combined Authority providing more affordable travel for families in the region. The Kids Go Free scheme means paying adults can take their children to attractions and locations around the region in school holidays for less, enjoying days out and family trips!”
Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus, said: “It’s great to see that Kids Go Free is being extended to all school holidays through to September 2026. The scheme has been a real success story on both Metro and the Shields Ferry, helping families to save money on the cost of public transport.”
As part of the offer, three children aged 11 and under can travel for free by bus with a fare paying adult or concessionary pass holder during the school holiday dates stated.
The school holiday offer adds to the permanent Kids Go Free offer on the region’s Metro and Shields Ferry, making sustainable travel by bus, Metro or Ferry a great option for families during school breaks.
For further information and full terms and conditions, visit www.northeast-ca.gov.uk/kidsgofree