Driving forward with Community Transport
Yesterday (Wednesday 13 August 2025) The Highland Council brought together community transport providers along with representatives from the NHS to focus on developing the network and to explore options for growth and collaborative working.
The day was well attended and very positive, with plenty of opportunities for networking. Going forward this new platform will help the network of providers, the Council and other stakeholders, including NHS Highland, build relationships and create closer collaboration.
Kathleen Lohsa, NHS Head of Service Development said: “There is a lot of opportunity for improved collaboration between the NHS, Highland Council and community groups around community transport. Coming together to talk about how we can work more closely together has been great as has speaking to people and making connections.”
Angus Watson, a volunteer driver with Communities in Motion based on the Black Isle said: “I feel this is the start of something new and exciting and the day has been a good way to share best practice and discuss a wide range of topics, including efficiency. As community transport providers we have so much in common, but also so much we can learn from each other.”
Donald Hall from Badenoch and Strathspey Community Connections said: “It’s been really positive to bring the network together to share the challenges and opportunities for communities and I look forward to hearing about the next steps.”
Topics discussed included potential funding opportunities, addressing gaps in transport provision, the availability and tariffs of EV charging across the Highlands, mobility vehicles, funding streams, the pivotal role volunteers play, identifying new opportunities and finding creative solutions.
The Council also highlighted that it is very keen to build on the model of using community transport providers to fill gaps in school transport provision.
Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “I want to thank everyone who came along and took part. Coming together has been really positive, and people made great contributions during the day.
“It was great to see so many people interacting and making connections. What came across loud and clear was partnership working is key to going forward. By sharing knowledge and learning from each other we are in a much better position to be able to shape community transport to the needs of communities.”
The Council will use feedback gathered from the day to build on forming an overarching vision for community transport, with partnership working very much at the heart.
Chief Officer, Fleet, Facilities and Transport, Paul Reid said: “Planning and co-ordination of this event was a team effort. I am delighted with the number of attendees and the event was useful as we build towards community-based Transport Solutions across the Highlands.”