Specialist UK-based wheelchair lift manufacturer Passenger Lift Solutions (PLS) says it is pleased to announce its new status as an official affiliate of the Community Transport Association (CTA). The new partnership represents a significant milestone, the company says, as it commits to a long-term collaboration with the CTA to advance the standards of community transport and enhance accessibility for passengers.
PLS has a history of supporting community transport operators with its reliable, high-quality wheelchair lifts and bespoke access solutions, and through the new partnership, the company says it aims to build on that legacy by contributing directly to initiatives that prioritise the safety, accessibility, and inclusivity of community transport.
As part of the collaboration, PLS will support several key programmes, including the Passenger Assistant Training Scheme (PATS), a nationally recognised training programme for those providing care and assistance to passengers travelling by road. Additionally, PLS will work with the CTA to enhance and redevelop the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme (MiDAS), ensuring it remains the leading accreditation for the safe operation of minibuses with up to 16 seats and continues to meet the evolving needs of community transport providers.
Another key focus of the partnership will be a joint awareness campaign surrounding LOLER Statutory Thorough Examinations. This initiative will promote the safety and proper maintenance of lifting equipment in community transport vehicles, ensuring the highest standards of operation.
Adam Beck, Managing Director of PLS, said: “Becoming an official affiliate of the CTA is a significant step forward for us. It provides a platform for us to contribute directly to improving the safety, accessibility, and inclusivity of community transport. Our collaboration on initiatives like PATS, MiDAS, and the LOLER awareness campaign demonstrates our ongoing commitment to supporting the sector with high-quality, reliable products and services. We look forward to working closely with the CTA and its members to develop innovative solutions that better meet the unique needs of community transport operators.”
