"The opportunity was there. The access was not": Alyson's Story

For many Deaf and disabled people living in rural communities, opportunities can still remain out of reach without accessible transport. Community transport services help bridge that gap, providing reliable, door-to-door journeys that enable people to stay connected, independent, and involved in everyday community life.

Alyson’s story highlights the difference accessible transport can make not only for individuals, but for families too.
Living in Glenanne, Northern Ireland, Alyson attends day opportunities at Camphill Community Mourne Grange in Kilkeel, where she helps grow biodynamic vegetables, fruit, and flowers for her community. The placement provides routine, purpose, and valuable social connections. 

For years, getting there was a daily challenge. Alyson’s family made a four-hour round trip each day to ensure she could attend, as public transport could not provide the supported, door-to-door journey she required.

The commute shaped the entire day. Mornings began early. Evenings ended late. Work and other responsibilities were arranged around the journey. Fuel costs mounted. Energy ran low. Although the placement was essential for Alyson’s wellbeing and development, the travel required to reach it was becoming increasingly difficult to sustain.

However, everything changed when Alyson’s mum, Sharon, discovered Newry and Mourne Community Transport. Alyson is now collected from her home and transported safely to Kilkeel each day. Her driver, Natalie, has built a trusted relationship with her, offering familiarity and reassurance on each journey. The service has made her attendance reliable and removed the daily strain on the family. 

The journey has also become an opportunity to travel with peers and build connections. As Sharon explains: “To be able to have Alyson picked up from the house and taken down to Kilkeel and collected again makes a big difference to us as a family.” 
Alyson’s story reflects the experience of many families across rural Northern Ireland, where community transport provides a vital link to education, employment, day opportunities, healthcare, and social participation.

For Alyson and her family, community transport has turned opportunity from uncertain to accessible. It provides independence, inclusion, and meaningful engagement in daily life, highlighting the practical impact of accessible transport across Northern Ireland.