Special new travel pass created for young jobseekers

A special public transport pass is being offered to people taking part in a new Greater Manchester-wide employment drive.

Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority’s (GMITA) Policy and Resources Committee has welcomed the creation of a discounted System One ticket, provided by Greater Manchester Travelcards Limited, which will provide 28 days’ travel on bus and tram services in the county for just £15.

It will be available exclusively to people participating in the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities’ Future Jobs Fund programme – a £52 million scheme aimed at creating around 8,000 six-month placements in the county over the next 18 months.

The fund will support work experience opportunities for people aged between 18 and 24 who have been out of work for nine to 12 months. The associated System One pass will be available for the duration of the programme.

Ian Macdonald, Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee, said: “The Future Jobs Fund is a very important programme that will help our young unemployed people to bridge the gap between them getting back into work, so the creation of this special pass is great news.

“We know that travel cost can act as a barrier to people taking up opportunities like this, so I am delighted that between us we have been able to remove this as a concern for these young people.

“And, in doing so, we may also provide the spark that encourages our potential new workers to think about travelling by public transport when they hopefully go on to secure full-time employment.”

Mark Threapleton, Chairman of Greater Manchester Travelcards Limited, said: “It is essential that practical assistance and support is given to addressing the level of youth unemployment within our region, and we welcome this opportunity to help.”

The special pass will only be available from GMPTE Travelshops, to ensure applicants can access the latest travel advice and support when travelling and can easily renew their ticket.