By Frances Campbell, Director for Northern Ireland

Community Transport Week begins with welcome news for Northern Ireland: Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced £1 million in capital funding to help community transport providers replace ageing vehicles.

The investment will enable each of the 13 providers to purchase a new minibus, replacing 13 of the 27 vehicles identified as the highest priority based on their age, mileage and condition.

By Sean Ray, Development Officer for England

One of the best things about working with CTA members is discovering the stories behind the services. In this case, several MiDAS trainers spoke highly of the work taking place at Nidderdale Plus, describing an organisation that was making a real difference across its community.

For the past two years, the Community Transport Association (CTA), Business Choice Direct (BCD) and WRS Insurance Brokers (WRS) have been working together with one shared goal: helping community transport organisations access specialist insurance and expert support they can rely on.

By Gemma Lelliott, Director for Wales

Thank you to everyone who joined us at The Midland Hotel in Manchester for the CT26 Awards. It was a brilliant evening bringing people from across the community transport sector together to celebrate the organisations, partnerships and individuals making a real difference in their communities.

We’re very grateful to our wonderful judges, who did an incredible job judging the unprecedented number of nominations we received this year, and to all of our sponsors for helping us recognise and celebrate the impact of community transport across the UK.

This year’s CT26 Awards will be especially significant as we celebrate 40 years of Community Transport Association (CTA). Since CTA was founded in 1986, the sector has grown into a vital network of organisations, volunteers and services connecting people to healthcare, education, employment and their communities.

The upcoming CT26 Awards are an opportunity not only to recognise the incredible achievements taking place across the sector today, but also to reflect on the rich history, dedication and innovation that have shaped community transport over the years.

This blog is written by Michelle Clarke, our Depty Director for Wales

“By supporting women in our sector, we ultimately strengthen our operations. When we work inclusively, we make better decisions.” 

For over four decades, one small but mighty organisation has been quietly transforming lives across Portlethen and the surrounding areas. The Portlethen and District Voluntary Community Ambulance offers far more than just transport - it keeps people connected to the world outside their front door, and for many, serves as a lifeline to vital medical appointments.

We spoke with Colin Stratton, one of the service's longest-standing volunteers, to learn more about the organisation's story, its impact, and why it continues to matter today.

We’re delighted to introduce our two newest Trustees, Sally Lloyd Davies and Barry Armstrong.