Stagecoach discounts for young Welsh

Stagecoach is to introduce discounted travel for young people on all of its bus services in Wales from 2 June. The pilot scheme will entitle everyone under 19 years old to receive a third off all the operator’s adult bus tickets. The company believes it is the first time a major operator has rolled out a national initiative of this kind. It is hoped it will encourage more young people to use public transport, as well as removing barriers for those seeking education and employment opportunities. Stagecoach cited a study by the National Union of Students (NUS) Wales that found financial difficulties were putting a strain on students’ ability to stay in education and concentrate on their studies. Stagecoach is also encouraging young Welsh to take up its VIP smartcard.

To mark the launch of the VIP card and the discount, teenagers in South Wales are being given the opportunity to take part in a summer placement. Stagecoach in South Wales is searching for four Directors of Teenage Communication. With a salary of £500 for the six week placement, the job will involve attending and reviewing events during the summer and promoting their Stagecoach South Wales VIP travel card to get around by bus.