Elderly and vulnerable passengers who benefit from on-demand bus and taxi services met with Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood in West London on 17 October to mark Community Transport Week. The Minister celebrated the work of operators as he visited Westway community transport in Westbourne Park, where he heard first-hand how services step in to fill the gap where users might not be able to use conventional public transport or drive.
To support services, the Government currently makes up to £3.8 million available annually to community transport operators, and as plans to give more control over bus services to local authorities gather pace, the Government says it is exploring how this initiative can incorporate the community transport sector. The Minister said: “Community transport services are a lifeline for so many people, which is why I was delighted to visit Westway today to celebrate the incredible work of operators up and down the country. We’re committed to improving our local networks, to make them more inclusive and enable vulnerable people to travel safely, confidently and with dignity.
“Community transport plays a vital role in providing these services, so we are working to ensure they are part of the solution.”
The Minister also spoke to Westway Deputy CEO Ryan Price about ways that the Government can further support the great work of operators. For 30 years, Westway has played a vital role in connecting communities and improving lives across Kensington & Chelsea, Westminster, and Hammersmith & Fulham, serving passengers who struggle to use the Tube, buses and other public transport.
Westway CEO Kathleen Lyons, said: “We were delighted to welcome Simon Lightwood MP to Westway Community Transport. It’s never been more important to showcase the work of Community Transport. We’re an essential part of the local transport mix – particularly for those who find public transport difficult to use – and a key component in any plan to tackle loneliness and social isolation.”
Community Transport Association CEO Victoria Armstrong added: “The CTA is delighted that the Local Transport Minister recognises the importance of CTWeek24 by visiting one of our members. Community Transport is vital to so many people across the UK, and this week we celebrate the range of community solutions to transport barriers across the country.
“I am pleased that the Minister was able to celebrate with us and to support what Community Transport is all about.”
