By Caroline Whitney, Director for England

The Charity Commission has published its latest research into public trust in charities, based on a survey of over 4,600 people and follow-up focus groups. This tells us a lot about how the public thinks, gives and engages with the causes they support, including the kind of local, practical services our sector provides.

Here is what stood out, and what it means for how we fundraise, talk to our communities, and make the case to councils and MPs.

By Sean Ray, Development Officer for England

In rural communities, having reliable transport can make all the difference, especially when it's no longer available. For many people living across Shropshire, particularly older adults, individuals with disabilities and those experiencing isolation, simply getting to a doctor’s appointment, the shops, or a social activity can be a real challenge.

By Caroline Whitney, Director for England

In April 2026, the Department for Transport published Better Connected, its long-term strategy for transport in England. It sits above the new Local Transport Plan guidance and is the document everything else in local transport is now meant to flow from. The good news for us is that community transport is named directly, in places that count. 

By Caroline Whitney, Director for England

On 2 April 2026, the Department for Transport published its new statutory guidance on Local Transport Plans (LTPs). It applies to local transport authorities in England outside London, and sets out how they should put together the plans that will shape transport in their area for the next 10 to 20 years. 

By Caroline Whitney, our Director for England 

Our recent fuel crisis impact survey gathered responses from 291 operators across England to understand how rising fuel prices are affecting community transport services. The results painted a concerning picture of a sector under severe and worsening pressure, with serious consequences looming for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities if fuel prices do not reduce soon.