Service
Community Transport and Rural Access
Community transport is about more than just getting from A to B — it’s a crucial service for people who are isolated, on low incomes, or without easy access to public transport. For many, especially in rural areas of Wales, it’s the key to staying independent, connected, and well.
This page offers councils practical tools, resources, and case studies to help improve community transport services — particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. You’ll find links to helpful organisations, guidance, and adaptable ideas to better support residents who rely on these essential services.
Resources for councils
- Awaiting information
Please contact the team at [email protected] if you would like us to send you copies of any of the resources featured in the recordings.
Signposting Support – Where to Direct Residents
- Dolen Teifi – Community Transport (Ceredigion & Carmarthenshire)
- Welshpool Community Transport – Taxi Tokens & Services
- Flintshire Community Travel (Ring & Ride, Flecsi)
- PACTO – Pembrokeshire Transport Schemes
- Community Transport Association – FAQs & Contacts
What Councils Can Do
- Back community transport initiatives such as car share programs, minibus services, or volunteer driver networks.
- Partner with neighbouring councils on joint transport solutions.
- Raise awareness of services that help residents reach hospitals or critical appointments.
- Improve access to funding and help residents benefit from schemes like taxi tokens or Wheels to Work.
- Explore opportunities for electric vehicles, car-sharing, and sustainable alternatives.
- Apply for grants and assist local transport charities.
- Use newsletters, websites, and social media to share transport updates and surveys.
- Regularly assess local transport – identify strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement.
- Engage with the community – and consult residents and local groups to understand transport needs and highlight existing resources.
- Include transport in your Place Plan, focusing on connectivity and wellbeing.
- Pilot new ideas and trial small-scale projects like a community bus or shared vehicle scheme to test viability.
Funding Information & Potential Opportunities
Local councils and community groups can access a range of funding sources to support transport and mobility projects. Explore the options below to find the best fit for your initiative:
- CTA Funding Advice – Guidance from the CTA on identifying and applying for sustainable transport funding.
- Funding Cymru – a searchable funding database for Welsh organisations, including community and transport-related grants.
- National Lottery Community Fund – Supports projects that strengthen community wellbeing and improve access to services.
- Motability Foundation Grants – Grants for organisations helping disabled people through mobility and accessible transport solutions.
- Grants and Funding Opportunities Newsletter
Council Powers Include:
- Power to provide taxi fare concessions – Local Government and Rating Act 1997 s28
- Power to make grants for bus services – Transport Act 1985 s106A
- Power to support car share schemes – Local Government and Rating Act 1997 s26
- Power to investigate and publicise local transport services – Local Government and Rating Act 1997 s29
The legal powers and justifications available to councils can differ based on their specific circumstances. For tailored advice and guidance, councils are encouraged to contact their One Voice Wales Development Officer.
[email protected]
Get in Touch
Want to share what your council is doing or ask for support?
Email: [email protected]
Join the Conversation: Cost of Living Crisis Forum – Facebook Group