Shape the future of Community Transport in Essex

Users of vital transport services can help shape the future of the service. Essex County Council has launched a new countywide survey to capture their views.

Community Transport services provide an important lifeline for many residents. The help people access healthcare appointments and shopping. They also help people access employment, education, social activities and other essential services.

Services provide options for those who may have difficulty using conventional public transport. This might be due to disability, age, mobility issues, rural location or other barriers.

The council wants to better understand how residents are using the services. This includes awareness of the services in communities and potential future transport needs.

The council survey is the first countywide survey specifically focused on these services. It is part of the council’s ongoing work to understand community transport needs. The aim is to ensure services continue to meet the needs of residents now and in the future.

The feedback received will help the council understand:

•         how community transport services are used

•         levels of customer satisfaction

•         barriers to accessing services

•         areas where there may be unmet demand

•         opportunities to improve information, communication and accessibility

•         the impact community transport has on people’s independence and wellbeing

The survey is open to current and previous Community Transport users. It is also open to carers, family members and people who want to learn more about Community Transport in their area.

As part of the survey, residents can find information about their local Community Transport provider. They can also provide feedback on the information and support available through providers.

The findings will help inform future Community Transport planning, service development and funding. It will also establish a baseline understanding of awareness, satisfaction and transport needs. This will enable the council to measure future improvements.

Councillor Mark Webster, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “Community Transport services provide a vital link for many Essex residents. They help people stay connected to their communities and access essential services. We are keen to hear from as many people as possible so we can understand how our residents are using these services and where we can make improvements to ensure these vital transport services continue to meet user need.”

Residents can complete the survey online at:

https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/iptu/community-transport-user-and-awareness-survey-2026

The survey opens today (1 September) and closes on 30 September.