YOUNG people with disabilities are being encouraged to apply for a free bus pass.

Nearly 2,500 young people with disabilities are now using a concessionary Hampshire County Council bus pass which allows them free bus travel at any time on journeys in the county.

Rob Humby, the authority’s executive member for environment and transport, said: “Being able to travel independently can make a big difference to anyone, whatever their age, and I’m pleased to see so many young people with disabilities taking up the offer of a free bus pass.

“I hope having the pass will take away some of the anxiety of travelling on public transport and give young people confidence to get about independently.”

The council is hoping more young people will apply for a disabled person’s bus pass, and has been working with schools across the county to promote the scheme.

The pass enables free travel on bus journeys which start in Hampshire between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday, and at any time during the weekend in the rest of England. Companion passes are also available, depending on the needs of the person applying.

Jacky Gamble, the parent partnership officer at Dove House School Academy, said: “I’m so pleased to see the information regarding the disabled person’s bus pass being available for our pupils.

“I have found they make a huge amount of difference to both parents and pupils.

“Taking away the pressure of having to handle money has made independent travel possible.

“I’m sure it will continue to help both parents and pupils alike gain confidence and work toward the young people travelling independently in the future.”

For more details or to see who is eligible and how to apply for a bus pass visit www.hants.gov.uk/concessionary-travel.