Transport
Public and Private Transport
Transport was one of the most common issues raised in the conversations. People talked about both limited access to private transport and problems with public transport, especially buses.
Participants described several challenges, including:
- High travel costs
- Poor road conditions and road closures
- Limited bus destinations
- Infrequent timetables
- Unreliable services
One participant highlighted the need for: “More destinations & frequency of bus routes that are coordinated to fit with the network”.
People explained that limited transport options in West Somerset make it hard to commute and access work, especially for those who rely on buses. One participant noted: “it can be hard for young people without their own transport when they are traveling to get to work.”
Transport was described as a barrier at every stage, from looking for a job to getting to the workplace. This was made worse when combined with other challenges, such as long distances between housing and workplaces, mismatched transport schedules, and limited flexible working options.
Participants also suggested practical ways employers and support organisations could help, including:
- Employer provided transport (for example, a staff bus)
- Car sharing schemes
- Interest free travel cards
- Working from home where possible
- Community transport initiatives (local driving schemes, car sharing, smaller local buses)