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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

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

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

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:

Driver Assessor Training

Rather than accessing MiDAS through an existing provider, you may want to be able to deliver MiDAS yourselves. 

This can be a good option particularly if you have a large number of people requiring training or if you struggle to find an existing provider close to you. It also allows you to deliver MiDAS to other organisations in your area. You can find out more about the steps involved with becoming a MiDAS Driver Assessor below.

 

Community Building Sessions

Welcome to the CTA’s Community Building Sessions

Running a Community Transport (CT) Organisation is rewarding, offering great chances to support communities and make an impact. We also know it can be isolated and challenging, especially when seeking advice or discussing issues and opportunities.

Our Advice & Support team run monthly Community Building sessions, holding virtual space to bring CT operators and CTA staff together once a month to discuss key topics for the sector.

Permits

Like commercial operators, community transport operators must hold a license if they are transporting passengers and receiving payment for their services. 

This requirement applies to the use of any passenger vehicle, including cars, MPVs, and minibuses.

Not-for-profit community transport operators can access S19 or S10B permits which enable you to legally operate your passenger service without having to apply for a commercial PSV Operators licence.