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What the Charity Commission's 2026 trust research means for community transport

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.

Driving Independence in Rural Shropshire: A Community Transport Success Story

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.

Better Connected: what the new national transport strategy says about community transport in England

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. 

Volunteer Car Driver

Our car scheme relies on a team of volunteer drivers to transport and assist passengers to get to their medical and well-being appointments. We are always looking for more volunteer drivers in all areas across Northampton (NN1-NN5) and are happy to speak to anyone who is interested in the role. 

What the new Local Transport Plan guidance means for community transport in England

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. 

Community Transport in England – Facing a Fuel Crisis

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. 

Local Authority and Infrastructure Community Transport Forum

The purpose of this event is to build knowledge of community transport, expand understanding of community transport and discover how best to engage with community transport. This forum would be useful to you if you want to learn more about community transport or work with your local community transport better.

Speakers for this session are to be announced at a later date, and there will be a Q&A at end of the presentations.

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