Driving Sustainability: Evaluating and Future-Proofing Volunteer Car Schemes

This project aims to investigate and evaluate the range of delivery models used for volunteer car schemes across England, focusing on their sustainability and potential for future development.  

 

Volunteer car schemes are a key form of community transport, with 41% of operators in the Mapping England survey indicating they run such services. However, the true scale and diversity of these schemes remain unclear, as many operate outside of formal membership structures due to limited turnover and the absence of permit requirements.

 

This project will provide a review of how these schemes are currently delivered, including variations in operating models, such as the use of personal versus provided vehicles, passenger booking systems, and fare structures. By examining these models, the study will identify key challenges and propose recommendations for sustainable, scalable solutions to meet the evolving needs of community transport.

 

The project will deliver updated resources for CTA members and operators, with an emphasis on practical guidance for adopting and adapting sustainable models. It will document the main types of journeys supported and evaluate their value, illustrating the broader impact of car schemes on communities. Resources for stakeholders will offer actionable insights into integrating volunteer car schemes into local transport planning, ensuring long-term viability.  

 

This work will culminate in recommendations for sustaining car schemes, equipping operators and stakeholders with the knowledge to strengthen and expand these vital services within the community transport sector.

 

This research will focus on collecting evidence and insights from CTO’s in;

North West, East of England, South Central, South West Gateway, South West Peninsular 

 

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