Cumberland Council is reminding young people and families that anti-social behaviour on public transport will not be tolerated following recent incidents on bus services across the area.
The reminder comes as children aged five to 15 continue to benefit from free bus travel throughout August as part of the Government-funded Great British Summer Savings campaign.
While the majority of young people are using the scheme responsibly, bus operators have reported an increase in incidents of disruptive and unacceptable behaviour on some services, particularly during the evening. Recent incidents have affected drivers, passengers and transport staff, including an assault on a member of staff at Carlisle Bus Station.
Cumberland Council is working closely with bus operators, Cumbria Police and partners to monitor the situation and ensure services remain safe and welcoming for everyone.
Councillor Denise Rollo, Cumberland Council's Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
"The free bus travel scheme has been a fantastic opportunity for children and young people to get out and about during the summer holidays, and the overwhelming majority have used it responsibly.
"However, there has been a small minority whose behaviour has been completely unacceptable. Nobody should have to face intimidation, abuse or anti-social behaviour simply for doing their job or travelling on public transport.
"Our bus drivers, station staff and passengers deserve to feel safe and respected, and we will continue to work closely with operators, Cumbria Police and other partners to address these issues.
"I would also ask parents and carers to support us by speaking to their children about behaving responsibly when using buses. We want this scheme to continue to be a success, but that relies on everyone playing their part.
Bus operators have reiterated that drivers have the authority to refuse travel or involve the police where behaviour is threatening, abusive or puts the safety of others at risk.
The council is encouraging anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour on public transport to report it to the bus operator or, where appropriate, Cumbria Police.
The free travel scheme continues until 31 August and remains available on participating services across Cumberland.
