​Research proves effective worth of community transport sector in Scotland

New research published by Transport Scotland shows how crucial community transport is to people – especially vulnerable groups – across the country.

The mode of transport, run by third sector organisations across Scotland, provides a critically important service providing cross-cutting benefits across a range of policy areas, including transport, health, social services and leisure, amongst others.

It also plays an important role in tackling different types of inequality, an important issue on the current Scottish Government policy agenda, the research found.

Some 50% of respondents noted that their trip could not or would not be made without community transport while 68% said it provides a means for isolated individuals to interact – for example enabled them to “just get out.”

In 2013 a £1 million fund was provided to enable CT organisations to replace ageing minibuses, resulting in 29 organisations receiving new vehicles last year.

The Scottish Government says it will continue to work with the sector and with local authorities on key concerns, including around training and improving service quality.

John MacDonald, Community Transport Association’s director for Scotland, said: “We very much welcome the report.

“It provides new evidence of just how significant community transport is for the wellbeing of people in many parts of Scotland.

“Community transport gives those who might otherwise be isolated the ability to connect with others as well as access to the services they need and the report illustrates this very well.”