This summer, our Grassroot Communities detached youth work team set out on a different kind of adventure. Not just a trip into town, but a journey towards independence.
With the launch of First Bus’ free bus travel scheme, the financial barrier was removed for many young people. But when we spoke with them, something else became clear: it wasn’t just the cost of travel holding some of them back. A few admitted they’d never really used the bus on their own before, and felt unsure or even a little nervous about navigating it independently.
From nerves to new skills
To change that, we decided to meet the group and guide them through a full bus journey step by step. The first challenge? Picking a destination. After some lively discussion (and a little negotiation!), Cabot Circus in Broadmead won the vote. That decision alone was a valuable exercise in teamwork and making sure every voice was heard.
Once the plan was set, our youth workers introduced the First Bus app, demonstrating how to check timetables and map out routes. This was more than just showing them a tool; it was giving them something they could use confidently on their own next time.
We also talked about how bus travel has changed. While the free summer travel meant young people didn’t need tickets, our team used the opportunity to show how to buy one through the app or by using the Tap On/Tap Off system onboard. We wanted to make sure they’d be ready for any future journeys.
Learning by doing
On the bus, we walked through practical skills that often go unspoken but make all the difference:
- Approaching the driver with confidence
- Understanding what respectful behaviour looks like on public transport
- Listening out for bus stop announcements so they don’t miss their stop
By taking the mystery out of the process, what started as something daunting quickly became an empowering and enjoyable trip.
What changed for the group?
The outcomes spoke for themselves:
- 🚍 Confidence: Young people felt far more able to use public transport on their own.
- 📱 Skills: They left knowing how to navigate the bus app and plan a journey.
- 🌍 Independence: They realised buses could give them greater mobility across the city.
- 🤝 Connections: Making group decisions strengthened their peer relationships.
More than a ride into town
For many of the young people, this wasn’t just about getting to Cabot Circus. It was about proving to themselves that they can do it. That they’re capable of navigating the city, making decisions, and stepping into independence with confidence.
At Grassroot Communities, we believe it’s often the everyday experiences – like catching a bus- that create the biggest growth opportunities. With the right support, even a short journey can open doors to freedom, independence, and a stronger sense of belonging.