The second annual Women in Bus and Coach (WiBC) Summit has been held in Manchester, bringing together industry leaders, stakeholders, frontline operators and advocates to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach and community transport sector.
The event, which saw participation from key industry figures, including Simon Lightwood MP – Minister for Local Transport, Andy Burnham – Mayor of Greater Manchester, Sarah Boyd – CEO of Lothian Buses, Anne Marie Purcell Chief Transformation Officer for Transport for Greater Manchester, and Claire Mann COO of Transport for London, marked a significant step forward in championing gender diversity and fostering allyship within the industry.
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: “I was delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in the bus and coach industry up and down the country.
“Our plans to deliver better buses will end the postcode lottery that has determined the quality and frequency of bus services for too long.
“As we deliver this biggest overhaul to buses in a generation, the work of each and every driver, engineer, manager and the countless others who keep our country moving will be vital”
The event included new Initiatives Unveiled to Drive Gender Equality. At this year’s summit, several transformative initiatives were launched, setting a new direction for women in the bus, coach and community transport industry:
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 and inspire future generations.
Period Positive Campaign: A groundbreaking campaign to promote menstrual equity within the industry by encouraging a supportive and inclusive working environment. The campaign seeks to ensure facilities and policies are put in place to accommodate women’s health needs.
Expansion into New Regions:
Irish Branch: The official launch of the Irish branch of Women in Bus and Coach will provide a dedicated platform for women working in Ireland to connect, collaborate, and champion equality within the sector.
Northern Region: A northern division has been established in England, recognising the growing presence and influence of women in the region’s bus, coach and community transport operations.
Coach Sub-Group: This newly established sub-group will provide targeted support and advocacy for women working in the coach sector, addressing the unique challenges they face and fostering collaboration across coach-specific issues.
Celebrating Excellence: Women in Bus and Coach Awards 2024
In a highlight of the summit, the winners of the inaugural Women in Bus and Coach Awards were announced, celebrating outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. The winners are:
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
Chief Executive Officer
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 (selected from the four category winners by an independent panel) – Sponsored by MCV Group
Julie Hartley
Sales Director
Irizar UK
Louise Cheeseman, Chair of Women in Bus and Coach, praised the industry’s efforts in promoting gender equality and the success of the summit:
“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.
On behalf of all the team at Women in Bus and Coach, I would like to extend my congratulations to not only the inaugural award winners and shortlisted candidates, but everyone who was nominated. There are amazing women across bus, coach and community transport, and we will continue to work to break down barriers for women in the industry, offering a platform to share knowledge, celebrate success, and inspire the next generation of female transport leaders – together we are better”.
(Picture – Women in Bus and Coach)
