Young People Say They Are Getting a ‘Raw Deal’ On Public Transport Fares

Students in Beverley say they get a raw deal when it comes to public transport as they are being forced to pay full fare when travelling by train to college in Hull.

Currently, students over the age sixteen are paying £26.10 per week for a travel permit to use the train, a price some feel is unfair.

One student told HU17.net;

“I do not think we should be asked to pay full fare until we are at least 18 years old. In the eyes of the law, we are still children. We are too young to drive a car, vote or drink but the rail companies class us as adults.”

If the train companies were to change their policy, then young people would save an astonishing £13.05 per week on their weekly travel to Hull.

The student we spoke to when asked if the saving would be help said it would as students are at times being forced to skip classes as they simply cannot afford to get to college, they told HU17.net;

“It would actually make a great deal of difference. I have a friend who goes to the same college who is from another area. Some days they have to miss college as they can’t get enough money for the train.”

While there is always the option of a bus the practicalities often mean it makes no sense, when asked about using the bus they told us;

“The bus works out slightly cheaper, around £2 per week, but is nowhere near as efficient. Trains are far better as they get you there on time more often and the overall time the journey takes is reduced.”

“It is the same with most things. We get charged adult prices but the law says we are not yet adults, so I just don’t understand how they can get away with it.”

When asked why they chose to study Hull College and get away from Beverley, they said;

“When I checked out the college in Beverley it didn’t really specialise in the course I wanted to do.”

“Like many young people I also wanted to get out of Beverley and socialise with a more diverse group. I also already knew the college well and was familiar with Hull and the surrounding area.”

While some students can claim support with their travel costs for many, it seems even though they do not have the same rights as adults the public transport system is quick to upgrade them to adults and cash in.

By Jess Warsap