We’re pleased to share that the Freedom Pass extended travel arrangements in Greater Manchester have now been confirmed as permanent.

From 1 March 2026, older and disabled people will be able to use their concessionary bus passes at any time of day, with the 9:30am restriction permanently removed across the Bee Network.

This follows a trial introduced last autumn, which allowed pass holders to travel before 9:30am for the first time. The trial demonstrated how removing time restrictions can make a real difference, particularly for people who need to travel early for work, medical appointments, education, or caring responsibilities.

The Disability Policy Centre first wrote to the Mayor of Greater Manchester about this issue in 2022, calling for the restriction to be lifted and setting out how limited travel hours create unnecessary barriers for disabled people. We’re pleased to see that this work has helped contribute to a lasting change in policy.

This is an exciting campaign success for us, and a well done to Whizz Kidz and Transport for All who also worked on campaigning this.

Read our open letter here