Women in Bus and Coach event champions diversity
The Women in Bus and Coach Summit
The second annual Women in Bus and Coach Summit was held in Manchester on October 8, bringing together industry leaders, stakeholders, frontline operators and advocates to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women across the bus, coach and community transport sectors.
Women in Bus and Coach said the event had marked a significant step forward in championing gender diversity and fostering allyship within the industry. It saw participation from key industry figures, including local transport minister Simon Lightwood and Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, Lothian Buses CEO Sarah Boyd, Transport for Greater Manchester chief transformation officer Anne Marie Purcell and Transport for London COO Claire Mann.
Several initiatives were launched at this year’s summit, setting a new direction for women in the industry.
These include the Trailblazer Blue Plaque Initiative, a recognition programme to honour women who have made exceptional contributions across bus, coach and community transport. The inaugural recipients announced were Mary Curry, who qualified as the first woman bus driver for Hants & Dorset in October 1973 and who was present at the summit, and Jill Viner, the first woman bus driver in London, who qualified in May 1974. This initiative aims to preserve the legacy of industry pioneers.
The event also marked a significant milestone with the launch of the organisation’s Period Positive Campaign, an initiative to promote menstrual equity within the industry. This groundbreaking campaign aims to foster a supportive and inclusive working environment, ensure that facilities and policies are in place to accommodate women’s needs.
We’re not just recognising the trailblazers; we’re creating a platform for the next generation of women leaders to thrive in this industry
Women in Bus and Coach also announced expansion into new regions. Last week’s event saw the official launch of an Irish branch of the organisation, established to provide a dedicated platform for women working in Ireland to connect, collaborate, and champion equality in the sector.
A northern division has been established in England, recognising women’s growing presence and influence in the region’s bus, coach and community transport operations.
Another significant development is the establishment of a new Coach Sub-Group, which will provide crucial support and advocacy for women working in the coach sector. This initiative aims to address the unique challenges these women face and foster collaboration.
In a highlight of the summit, the inaugural Women in Bus and Coach Awards winners were announced (see below), celebrating outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry.
Louise Cheeseman, chair of Women in Bus and Coach, praised the industry’s efforts in promoting gender equality and the summit’s success: “This summit is a testament to the incredible women who are transforming the bus, coach and community transport sector every day. With the launch of new initiatives and regional branches, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive future. We’re not just recognising the trailblazers; we’re creating a platform for the next generation of women leaders to thrive in this industry.”
Women in Bus and Coach Awards 2024
Best Woman in Bus Award, sponsored by Backhouse Jones
Liz Eades, Workshop Manager, Stagecoach South East
Best Woman in Coach Award, sponsored by IntSol Recruitment
Julie Hartley, Sales Director, Irizar UK
Best Woman in Community Transport Award, sponsored by Dawsongroup Bus and Coach
Kimberley Ward, CEO, Lothian Community Transport Services
The Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill Allyship Award, sponsored by The Go-Ahead Group
Richard Grey, Managing Director, Greys Travel Solutions
Woman of the Year Award, sponsored by MCV Group
Julie Hartley, Sales Director, Irizar UK
This article appears in the latest issue of Passenger Transport.
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The post Summit puts spotlight on women in bus sector first appeared on Passenger Transport.