Fife’s young carers are to be offered free bus travel in an effort to make their lives easier.
Bus firms Stagecoach and Moffat and Williamson are launching a trial at the end of the month to ensure those caring for a sick parent are not isolated or financially disadvantaged.
The move has been described as a lifeline by those who support the region’s 7,000 young carers and it is hoped that, if successful, the pilot will be extended.
Nina Collins, information and liaison worker with Fife Young Carers organisation, said: “Young kids have been talking about money being tight and said that to have free travel would be really good, not only to get into school if they’re running late but also just to connect with their peers if they do get a break.”
She added: “There is already a plus one scheme where they can travel free with the person they care for but they don’t always want to take that person with them.
“Sometimes it’s a lot easier not to if they’re going for shopping or to the chemist.”
The bus firms agreed to introduce the trial after being approached by Fife councillor Bill Brown, who had spoken to young carers and was moved by their commitment.
“It must be really hard to do all that they do and try to cope with school or college as well,” he said.
“They certainly don’t have much free time. When they have time out to meet friends they often don’t have money to get away for some time out.”
Stagecoach have agreed to give authorised young carers free travel for five weeks, while Moffat and Williamson will take a group to the airport and back for a conference in the Netherlands in October.
Mark Whitelocks, operations director, Stagecoach East Scotland said: “We’re delighted to be involved in this trial, offering free travel to young carers on our bus network.
“Often these youngsters need to run errands for their families and by providing free travel we can ensure they are not at a financial disadvantage by doing so.
“Allowing them to travel free on our buses in their own free time too is an added reward for the level of support they provide to those who need them as young carers.”