Fears under 22s free bus pass scheme leading to youth crime rise
Dundee resident put off using buses because of 'disrespectful' youngsters
Last updated 14th Dec 2022
There are concerns free bus passes for young people in Scotland are leading to a youth crime rise.
The scheme was introduced in January and has recently received praise due to the amount of youngsters who have benefited.
However, we're hearing reports from several areas it's leading to a surge in anti social behaviour.
An avid bus user in Dundee tells us she's been putt off using services across the city since they became free to under 22's.
The Scottish Government, other authorities and bus operators say there is no evidence to suggest the scheme has led to a rise in youth crime.
"They gather in groups and make me feel intimidated"
Karen, 51, said "its intimidating when you go upstairs on a double-decker (bus) and they're always there. You make eye-contact as there is about 15-20 youngsters.
"It is the volume of noise that really bothers me. On one occasion, they (young people) were throwing plastic bottles at one another.
She added "I also hear them use bad language when they're in the company of older people and children".
Passes helping to 'reduce social inequality'
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: "There is no evidence to suggest that there has been a rise in youth crime in Scottish cities as a result of the provision of free bus passes to people under the age of 22.
"Free bus passes help reduce social inequality, provide better access to work, education and leisure and give younger generations a better start in life."
Moray Council also highlighted the scheme's benefits for tackling social inequality.
A spokesperson said: "It's on this basis we promote the scheme to young people and their families.
"We continue to work with partners, like Police Scotland, to tackle anti-social behaviour, whether it's related to free bus travel or not."
Other incidents across the country
An Elgin dad is calling for certain restrictions to be imposed on those who use it for "delinquent behaviour" after his daughter was allegedly harassed.
Neil MacConnachie claims his daughter and her friend were recently victims in two separate incidents
There has also been issues reported in Glasgow and Ayrshire.