Community transport in conference

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CTA CEO Victoria Armstrong welcomed members to the conference. JONATHAN WELCH

Jonathan Welch reports from the Community Transport Association’s annual conference in Newcastle, ‘CT24: The Voice of the Passenger’

On Wednesday 27 November, I made the trip to Newcastle, to the intriguingly named Boiler Shop, for the annual Community Transport Association (CTA) conference and AGM, which this year was based around the theme of ‘The Voice of the Passenger.’ After a welcome from CTA CEO Victoria Armstrong, and a video address from Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP, the programme for the day included discussions around supporting and growing the sector, unlocking social value, and a series of workshops as well as ‘lightening talks’ from members from around the UK, as well as ample time for networking with other attendees and supplier sponsors.

Ministerial address

In addressing the conference via a pre-recorded video, and sending his apologies for not being able to attend in person, the Local Transport Minister said he recognised the immense value and important work of the sector and its thousands of dedicated staff and volunteers in helping people to lead more fulfilling lives.

Relating his recent visit to a West London community transport provider, the Minister said he was keen to continue to work closely with all community operators, and thanked all those present for their hard work.

CTA Chief Executive Victoria Armstrong expressed gratitude for the Minister’s support for the sector, seeing it as part of a wider integrated transport network and recognising its benefits. The conference, she said, would be an opportunity to reflect on what the sector does every day, the things that are often taken for granted, and a reminder of the impact that community transport has.

As Victoria reminded us, community transport is more than just a service from A to B, and is powered by a combination of motivation, compassion and kindness. It’s a movement driven by people who care, and who are passionate about social inclusion. “Our members are challenging transport barriers,” she said.

“The passenger’s voice has never been so important. We need to keep passengers at the forefront of our minds. What can we do to give an even better experience?” she asked, contrasting the desire to do better with the ongoing worries over funding that beset the lion’s share of the community transport sector which, like the wider voluntary sector, has many constant challenges.

Victoria also mentioned the CTA’s focus on improving partnerships with commercial organisations, which she said can be important allies to the sector. The CTA is working to broker new relationships, she said, adding that last year’s annual conference had been a huge success and already helped to foster new partnerships. It recently launched its partnership with Business Choice Direct (BCD) and WRS Insurance Brokers, part of the Benefact Group, which has already seen multiple CTA members sign up for fleet and charity insurance.

John Chesters of Ealing Community Transport spoke about the importance of social value. JONATHAN WELCH
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