The independent passenger watchdog spoke to more than 1,000 people to understand the impact of the fare cap and how it was helping passengers with the cost of living.

The ‘Get Around for £2’ scheme was first launched in January, and was expected to be in place for three months. But it was then extended by three months, so it will now end on 30 June. Participation in the scheme is voluntary, but most major bus operators offer it.

Transport Focus found that more than one in 10 of those surveyed are using the bus to travel more, more than four in 10 thought the new fare might save them money, and 80% thought it would help with the cost of living. More than four in 10 said the bus journeys were replacing ones they would have made by car.

Looking to the future, people that told Transport Focus they might make use of the £2 fare instead of making a car journey (49%), while others said the £2 fare would help them travel to places they wouldn’t otherwise go (41%).

‘Giving the bus a go’

Transport Focus director David Sidebottom, said: “Our research shows the £2 bus fare is having a big impact in helping more people get around by bus and putting more money back in their pocket. Cheaper fares are vital in winning passengers back and providing a lifeline for bus routes up and down the country.

“It’s great to see the introduction of simpler, better value for money fares helping more people give bus a go. This comes at a critical time when many people are struggling and worried about the cost of travel.”

Richard Holden, roads minister, said: “It’s fantastic to see how the £2 bus fare cap is helping people save money, get on the bus more and travel sustainably.

“That’s why we’ve just extended the fare cap for a further three months, with over 5,400 routes now part of the scheme, as we continue to help people keep money in their pockets while levelling up transport and growing the economy.”