Scottish Government introduces free ferry travel for youth in Orkney, Shetland, and Western Isles.
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Starting next week, residents under the age of 22 living in Orkney, Shetland, and the Western Isles will benefit from a new initiative that allows them to travel for free on inter-island ferry services. This scheme, introduced by the Scottish Government, aims to enhance accessibility for young islanders, enabling them to travel as foot passengers without incurring any costs.
Details of the new ferry travel scheme
The initiative is reminiscent of the free bus travel program launched in January 2022, which has already seen significant uptake among young residents. To take advantage of the free ferry travel, eligible passengers must present either their Young Scot or National Entitlement Card.
This requirement ensures that the benefits are directed towards those who genuinely qualify under the age limit.
It is important to note that the free travel applies specifically to foot passenger fares and does not extend to vehicle travel. The ferry services included in this scheme are operated by CalMac, Orkney Ferries, and Shetland Islands Council. However, residents in Argyll and Bute and Highland, despite being home to the Inner Hebrides, will not be included in this initiative.
Long-term goals of the Scottish Government
This new ferry travel scheme is part of a broader strategy outlined in Transport Scotland’s Islands Connectivity Plan, which was established last year. The plan emphasizes the importance of affordable and sustainable ferry services for island communities. By providing free travel for young residents, the Scottish Government aims to tackle child poverty and stimulate economic growth by facilitating access to education, employment, and social opportunities.
Currently, island residents aged 16 to 18, along with full-time volunteers aged 19 to 25, are eligible for four free ferry journeys each year to and from the Scottish mainland. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for young people living in these remote areas.
Government support and future plans
Fiona Hyslop, the cabinet secretary for transport, expressed her enthusiasm for the new scheme, stating, “This new scheme will enable children and young people to travel for free between islands across their local authority area, improving access to education, employment, training, health and social activities, and much more.” She emphasized the government’s commitment to extending free ferry travel to more young people in the future, reinforcing the priority of eradicating child poverty.
Recent statistics indicate a growing interest in free travel initiatives, with 36.8% of under-22s in the Western Isles signing up for the free bus travel scheme, and even higher percentages in Orkney and Shetland. This trend highlights the demand for accessible transportation options among young residents in Scotland’s islands.
