Tackling Driver Shortages: D1 Campaign

Minibus driver shortages are a significant and growing barrier to the expansion, and even the survival, of Community Transport services across the UK.

The current requirement for minibus drivers to have a minibus category D1 licence severely constrains the pool of potential staff and volunteers for our sector. Individuals who passed their B licence test prior to 1997 have an automatic entitlement to a D1 licence.

Modernising for Growth

electric minibus with green livery

CTA has five Policy & Research priorities which focus our work as the voice of the Community Transport sector.

1.    Modernising for Growth
2.    Improving Access to Health & Social Care
3.    Investing in Community Solutions
4.    Accelerating Community-Led Climate Action
5.    Delivering a Fair Deal for Volunteers

CT Data and Insights

grey rectangle with a light bulb drawn on a yellow sticky note

We believe in evidence-based public policy and in the power of stories to change minds and change lives. 

Whether its personal testimonials or long-term statistical trends, data and insights from the expertise and lived experience of Community Transport operators, passengers, volunteers and supporters enrich our collective understanding of our sector, giving us the evidence we need to secure more funding, shape a new strategy or change the law.

#CommunitySolutions: A Manifesto

illustration showing a yellow, blue and red town scape with mini bus and ambulance

A Better Future for Transport: National Challenges, Community Solutions

We believe everyone should have access to local transport which meets their needs. Do you?

Our Manifesto for the UK General Election – A Better Future for Transport: National Challenges, Community Solutions – calls for a new and dynamic partnership between the UK Government, CTA and the Community Transport sector.

It’s time for #CommunitySolutions to our national challenges:

Policy & Research

a group of people talking around a conference table

We believe that everyone, no matter who they are or where they live, should have access to local transport which meets their needs. 

We fight for this every day by gathering evidence, engaging with politicians and conducting research which can change lives through policy, regulation and legislation.

Campaigning Guide

Empowering Communities, One Journey at a Time


At the Community Transport Association, we believe in the transformative power of accessible and sustainable transport. Our Campaigning Guide is designed to equip you, our members, Community Transport Operators, volunteers, and advocates with the tools and knowledge necessary to drive change and improve transport services in your communities.

This guide is your tool for effective advocacy, offering step-by-step advice and practical resources to enhance your campaigning efforts.

CTA responds to the Consultation on Northern Ireland’s Concessionary Fares Scheme

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is currently reviewing the Concessionary Fares Scheme, which provides free or discounted travel on public transport for older people and people with disabilities in Northern Ireland. The Scheme is funded by the Department and delivered by Translink, the main public transport operator in Northern Ireland. Through the Assisted Rural Transport Fund, SmartPasses can also be used on Rural Community Transport Partnerships Dial-a-lift journeys.  

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