Brighton and Hove Buses introduce verification for children

Brighton and Hove Buses mobile app has been updated to make it easier for children to prove their age when buying tickets.

The bus company announced it will remove the need for children to have  abus ID card, instead giving them the otion to use other ID.

Youngsters have been met with a message telling them their BusID tickets will be "withdrawn from sale" on May 2.

This comes after the bus company announced a verification process, similar to that of student tickets, will be introduced to combat misuse of the discounted fares.

The message on the Brighton and Hove Buses app (Image: Brighton and Hove Buses)

The new process will involve people under 19 uploading a picture of themselves and providing proof of age in order to buy a child ticket on the app.

This means that youngsters will not need to carry proof of age with them when they travel as their identification has already been verified in the app.

The process involves purchasing a child ticket on the app and then following the instructions to take a picture of themselves and their ID.

This also means children can use a wider range of ID to purchase a ticket.

A spokesman for Brighton and Hove Buses said: "We are pleased to be able to offer discounts to children and families. These have been available on our app and our key card for many years.

"It’s really important that we ensure that only those who are entitled to the discounts are using them.

"This helps us protect children from having to pay more in the future, which we know is important to you."

The new verified tickets were launched earlier this month and there is a grace period until May 3, when verification will be required.  

The full list of accepted ID includes:

• BusID/Metrobus child key card
• Passport
• Birth certificate
• Citizencard
• TfL Zip Card
• Driving licence.