Background of Direct Links Transport
Aim
“To provide an accessible and affordable transport service to individuals and groups living within the community”
The Upper Springfield Development Company Ltd (USDC Ltd) Action on Disability Project had at its disposal 2 new buses fully accessible for able bodied and disabled customers and as a result of identified need within the community began to offer a bus hire service for community use of approximately 40hrs per week. This was done with the good will and dedication of a volunteer driver.
With further requests, a clear identified need within the community and no other social economy focused on providing transport within West Belfast & Greater Shankill plans commenced to establish a social economy transport business.
Initially, a senior driver with supervision and training responsibilities was recruited as well as an administrator. In addition, the business looked to create further employment opportunities and create a pool of casual drivers who would be available if demand increased.
The USDC Ltd Action on Disability Project applied to the Employment Services Board’s for West Belfast and Greater Shankill Social Economy Fund (funded by the Integrated Development Fund through Invest NI) to employ 2 drivers with caring responsibilities. USDC Ltd was successful and was awarded a contract for 2 years between 2008-2010. This funding will enable the business to reach its full earning potential and make its mark in the community transport field.
With a higher need for appropriate transport Direct Links Transport has provided a solution, created employment within the community, improved access to services and give improved opportunity to our identified target groups.
Direct Links Transport is a member of the Community Transport Association
Community Transport Association is the national body for the community transport sector. It is the UK’s biggest provider of training, advice and information on accessible, voluntary and community transport provision.
The Community Transport Association NI website has all the latest news, events and publications from N. Ireland.