The Welsh Government has announced a temporary targeted scheme to help bus, school and community transport services cope with rises in fuel costs.

The £7 million Bus Services Support Grant (BSSG) Plus scheme will help transport services with fuel-cost pressures, but will also protect passengers from fare increases.

The funding will be distributed through local authorities.

Deputy Minister for Transport, Mark Hooper, said: "We recognise the significant pressures that exceptional and sustained fuel costs are placing on bus, school and community transport services across Wales.

"These services provide vital connections for communities, helping people to access education, employment, healthcare and other essential services. We have been working closely with local authorities and the transport sector to understand the pressures they are facing and the potential impact on services.

"In response, we have developed BSSG Plus, a temporary and targeted package of support designed to help address exceptional fuel-cost pressures and protect essential services.

"In the meantime, we continue to monitor fuel prices and work closely with the sector and local government."