LOCAL COMMUNITY TRANSPORT CHARITY TACKLES LONELINESS AND ISOLATION

As the UK recognises National Loneliness Week, (13-17 June) Cheshire’s Plus Bus is making 30,000 trips a year possible for vulnerable and isolated older people to get out and about.

Based in Ellesmere Port Plus Bus, run by ECT Charity gives people across the area access to transport they wouldn’t otherwise have, meaning they can make their lives better by meeting friends and family, and crucially get to essential services like their doctor or the shops - even their nearest ATM. 

Loneliness affects 1.4million older people in the UK and is now widely recognised as a major issue. Simon Finnie, general manager at ECT Cheshire says:  “We can all experience loneliness, and for those without a car, less able to jump on a bus or who feel nervous about using public transport the feelings of isolation can build up. Being able to visit friends or get to the shops keeps us active, connected and healthy.  Our Plus Bus service helps people to do that.”

With local bus services facing cuts or closure access to travel can be challenging for those who can’t confidently access public services. As bus routes continue to feel the squeeze CCT can step in and help those with no access get to where they want to be.

The charity, established in 2007 operates across Chester, Neston and Ellsemere port and is a pioneer of direct response community travel for vulnerable and older people who can’t get to a mainstream transport, either because their services have been stopped or they aren’t confident or have mobility requirements.  Plus Bus offers a door-to-door service for individuals and community groups. Find out if we have a service near you, call us on: 0151 357 4420 

email: cheshire@ectcharity.co.uk

Simon explains:  “Plus Bus is for people who can’t use public transport or their own, or maybe they aren’t confident using mainstream services, or they have mobility requirements, or simply need some extra help to start their journey. You can register by calling the office. You can travel with us for £5 return or use your national bus pass - and bring a companion too. You’d be surprised how many people out there don’t realise how we can help them, we’d like to change that.”

The charity also works with the council providing home to school transport, and to local groups.