A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset CouncilAs we head towards Christmas, I’m delighted to share some exciting developments from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority that especially benefit young people. This week saw the relaunch of the successful Kids Go Free travel scheme. From 20 December through to 4 January, children aged five to 15 can travel free on local buses across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. There’s no need for a pass or registration—families can simply hop on board and enjoy the benefits. This scheme is about more than free travel. It’s about supporting families at a time when household budgets are stretched, encouraging sustainable transport choices, and giving young people the freedom to explore everything our region has to offer. When Kids Go Free ran over the summer holidays, it enabled more than 900,000 free journeys and saved families close to £1 million. It also boosted footfall in our high streets and attractions. The Christmas return of Kids Go Free is funded through the £13.5 million Bus Grant secured by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority from the Department for Transport. This is a great example of how devolved powers and regional collaboration deliver real benefits for residents. It’s also a step towards our shared ambition for greener, better-connected communities. As the West of England Combined Authority Deputy Mayor and Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, I’m proud that this initiative not only helps families but also reduces car use, cuts emissions, and supports local businesses. Launching this scheme with West of England Mayor Helen Godwin and Kathryn Davis, CEO of Visit West at Bath Christmas Market (pictured) felt particularly special because the market, now in its 25th year, has got off to a fantastic start. In its first week, thousands of visitors have enjoyed the festive atmosphere. With more than 250 stalls showcasing the very best of local craftsmanship—from handmade gifts and decorations to artisan food and drink—the market is a celebration of everything that makes our area unique. Earlier this week, I had the privilege of speaking at the West of England Careers Hub Employer Conference. This event brought together businesses, educators, and skills leaders to discuss how we can better prepare young people for the world of work. The Careers Hub plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring that every young person in our region has access to high-quality careers advice and real-world experiences. It is an important collaboration between councils, employers, and schools to create pathways into good jobs and address skills shortages in key sectors like green energy, digital, and health. Employers told us they want to engage more with schools, and we’re committed to making that happen through the Careers Hub. Investing in skills is not just about helping individuals; it’s about building a stronger regional economy. By equipping young people with the tools to succeed, we attract talent, drive innovation, and ensure that the West of England remains a great place to live and work. Have a great weekend. | 
