Andy Burnham announces huge changes on train travel | Personal Finance | Finance

Andy Burnham will slash train travel for 18-year-olds this month with a new “common sense” railcard extension. The Department for Transport (DfT) announced that the 16-17 Saver railcard, which can be bought by people aged 16 or 17, will remain valid for a full year from the date of purchase, effective from August 17. These railcards currently expire when the holder turns 18.

The DfT said the existing rule means more than 70,000 students each year are, on average, £175 worse off than their peers in the same academic year who have not yet become adults. Rail minister Lord Hendy claimed this “common sense change” is “exactly what passengers should expect from the railway”.

He continued: “I’m proud that this change will support young people and their families to lower the cost of travel at a critical time for teenagers, whether they’re pursuing further education, vocational pathways or getting their footing in the jobs market.

“Making travel fairer and more affordable is central to the vision for Great British Railways. By delivering simpler fares and putting passengers first, we’re creating a railway that’s easier to use, better value for money and focused on meeting the everyday needs of the people who rely on it.”

The new policy brings the 16-17 Saver into line with other railcards. The 16-17 Saver Railcard costs £35 per year and entitles the holder to 50% off most train fares.

Kaynat Ahmad, vice president for further education at the National Union of Students, described the railcard as “essential for young people reliant on trains to get to college, work or training”.

The Prime Minister recently called the cost of train travel “outrageous”, describing it as “in my sights”, speaking to the Mirror. He said he was ‘looking across the piece’ for ways to ease cost-of-living pressures, amid ongoing public spending pressures.

Jacqueline Starr, chief executive of industry body the Rail Delivery Group, said extending the railcard’s validity demonstrates the sector’s commitment to “offering better value fares and delivering a more joined-up railway”.

The announcement comes after the Government said the cap on most single bus fares in England will be cut from £3 to £2 next year.