Industry figures supporting and inspiring women in the PCV sector have been celebrated at the Women in Bus and Coach (WiBC) Summit in Manchester.

The event brought 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.

B&CB has already reported on Simon Lightwood MP, Minister for Local Transport’s message delivered at the Summit, but also participating was 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 TfL.

New Initiatives

Several initiatives were launched at the Summit, designed to set a new direction for women in the bus, coach and community transport industry. They include:

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

WiBC is expanding to new regions, including the official launch of an Irish branch, which will provide a dedicated platform for women working in Ireland to connect, collaborate and champion equality within the sector.

Additionally, 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.

There has also been a coach sub-group set up, which is aimed at providing targeted support and advocacy for women working in the coach sector, addressing the unique challenges they face and fostering collaboration across coach-specific issues.

Louise Cheeseman, Chair of Women in Bus and Coach, said: “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.”

• The event also saw the winners of the inaugural Women in Bus and Coach Awards announced. Find out who won here.