Residents invited to shape the future of community transport in North London

Residents across Enfield, Haringey and Hackney are being invited to help design the future of accessible community transport through a series of free co-design workshops launching this year. 

The workshops form part of an ambitious new initiative to transform community transport services across North London, following a £386,599 grant from the Motability Foundation. The two-year pilot project is being led by Community Transport Waltham Forest (CTWF) and aims to address growing gaps in transport provision that have left many disabled people and vulnerable residents facing barriers to travel and social participation. 

A key partner in the project is Public Voice, which will lead community engagement activities to ensure local residents play a central role in shaping the service from the outset. 

Dan Rogers, CEO of Public Voice, said: 

“At our Connection Matters Conference in 2023, we identified the urgent need for better community transport to support wellbeing and tackle social isolation in Haringey. This study is an opportunity to reshape how these services are developed and delivered, not just for the community, but with the community.” 

The free 90-minute workshops, facilitated by Transport for All, will provide residents with an opportunity to share their experiences, discuss local transport challenges, and contribute ideas for new community transport services. Insights gathered during the sessions will directly inform the design of services that will later be tested through a ride-along programme. 

Participants will receive a £50 thank-you payment and can choose to attend either in person or online. Refreshments will be provided, and free accessible minibus transport will be available to take attendees to and from workshop venues. 

The initiative reflects a growing recognition that accessible transport is essential for tackling social isolation, improving wellbeing, and enabling people to participate fully in community life. 

Residents living in Enfield, Haringey and Hackney are encouraged to register their interest now. Workshop dates and locations are currently being finalised, and those who register will be among the first to hear when sessions in their borough are confirmed. 

Places are limited. 

To register your interest, contact Talia Veersawmy on 07523 696273 or email Talia@ctwf.co.uk.