10 October 2023
by Graham Martin
For nearly 60 years, Community Transport has delivered lifeline services to keep communities connected
Charities and community groups are preparing to celebrate the first ever Community Transport Week this month.
For nearly 60 years, Community Transport has delivered lifeline services to keep communities connected, helping millions of people access colleges, hospitals, schools, shops, universities, workplaces and more, as well as creating local jobs and volunteering opportunities.
Community Transport Week offers a chance to celebrate the sector’s achievements, diversity and impact sector – from community-owned buses and car clubs which reduce car use and carbon emissions, to accessible minibuses which empower older people and disabled people to live more independently.
The Community Transport Association (CTA) says the theme of the inaugural event – ‘Bridging the Gap, Connecting Communities’ – highlights how non-profit groups bridge gaps in the public transport system and bring people together. The event is led by the CTA and supported by the Department for Transport.
Large parts of the UK rely on Community Transport because of a lack of accessible or affordable public transport in their local area. As bus networks shrink, communities are increasingly stepping up to the plate to deliver their own solutions to unmet transport needs.
Dr Victoria Armstrong, CTA’s CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching the first-ever Community Transport Week to celebrate the amazing impact of our sector in urban, rural and island communities across the UK.
“Community Transport delivers so much social value and provides lifeline services to so many people. They’re essential and so it’s only right that we celebrate and say thank you to the commitment and dedication of our sector’s drivers, volunteers, leaders and trustees.
“Our members have got exciting plans for community activities and volunteer celebrations. The CTA team is also going to be out and about all over Scotland, joining in the celebrations. We can’t wait to meet more staff, volunteers and passengers across the country.”
First ever week to celebrate Community Transport - TFN
The above information is from a Weekly Social Justice and Poverty roundup is from a Third Force News (TFN) Newsletter Tue 10/10/2023