Free tram travel for ‘frontline’ NHS and social care staff

Those using the tram system, which will be free for eligible workers from this Saturday, will still be asked to avoid unnecessary journeys

Metrolink travel will be free for all NHS and social care workers from this weekend under plans announced by Andy Burnham.

The Greater Manchester mayor said hospital and care home staff ‘on the frontline’ in the fight against coronavirus could be finding it more expensive to get to and from work.

Those using the tram system, which will be free for eligible workers from this Saturday April 11, will still be asked to avoid unnecessary journeys.

Metrolink usage has fallen by around 95pc during the pandemic, with tram frequencies dropping to one every 20 minutes.

Regional leaders are also keen on rolling out the offer to buses, though discussions between the combined authority and local operators are ongoing.

Speaking at the fourth press conference on the regional response to COVID-19, Mr Burnham said: “We’re all in awe of what our staff are doing in the NHS right now, it is so difficult out there.

“We’ve been wanting to see what more we can do to show we recognise what NHS staff are going through but also the disruption to their family life, possibly facing greater costs than they would normally do as the world has changed over the last few weeks.”

After being lobbied by several Greater Manchester MPs, the combined authority also agreed to extend the offer to social care staff.

He added: “Sometimes the social care workforce is forgotten and doesn’t get the same level of recognition.

“I want to ensure that we see health and social care as one system. We recognise that they’re all on that frontline right now supporting people with coronavirus.

“Having spoken to the leaders, we all agreed from Saturday that we will make Metrolink free to our NHS and social care staff as a small gesture of thank you to them for everything they are doing right now.”

Last week transport secretary Grant Shapps announced that £397 million would be made available to protect vital bus services in England.

A similar pledge has been made for public transport in the West Midlands, including trams and buses – but such a deal has not yet been struck in Greater Manchester.

Mr Burnham said: “I have to say at this stage the only bit that is agreed is what is under our control which is the Metrolink.”

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