A community transport service provides accessible and affordable transportation options to people who may have difficulty using standard public transportation.

These services are typically designed to meet the needs of specific groups within a community, such as elderly individuals, people with disabilities, or those living in rural or remote areas where regular public transport options may be limited or nonexistent.

Key features of community transport services include:

Accessibility: Vehicles are often equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, making them accessible to people with physical disabilities.
Flexibility: Unlike fixed-route public transport, community transport services can be more flexible, offering door-to-door service or routes tailored to the specific needs of the community.
Affordability: These services are often subsidised or operated by non-profit organisations, local councils, or charitable groups, making them more affordable than commercial transport options.
Social Impact: Community transport services play a crucial role in promoting social inclusion by helping individuals maintain independence and access essential services, such as medical appointments, shopping, and social activities.

These services are vital in enhancing the quality of life for those who might otherwise be isolated due to transportation barriers.

Typical community transport services include forms of:

Community car schemes / volunteer driver schemes
Dial a Ride (or now DRT services)
Shop mobility services
Group travel
Non-Emergency patient travel (NEPT)

What is a Community Transport Service?