Just 10% of bus drivers are women, minister says

More women need to be recruited to work as bus drivers, a government minister has said.

Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP was speaking at an event held in Manchester to celebrate women working in the bus industry.

He told delegates at the awards ceremony that only 10% of bus drivers were women, adding that he hoped changes - such as more flexible working - would encourage more women to apply.

"Too often in the past transport systems have been designed for men by men so it's important that we address this balance," Lightwood added.

He said there was a shortage of bus drivers in general across the country.

"It's really important for me that we're able to make sure that we have representation across every part of transport, from frontline roles like drivers themselves into really senior positions," he said.

He added that it was important that the transport system truly reflected the needs of everyone.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said he hoped plans to transform technical education in Greater Manchester through the MBacc would help to encourage even more women into the industry.

He praised the hard work and dedication of Bee Network staff, "including the many brilliant women working tirelessly to deliver a great service to the people of Greater Manchester, whether that’s driving buses, working at our bus stations, interchanges or Travelshops, or leading our franchising programme".

Louise Cheeseman, the chair and founder of Women in Bus and Coach, said: "This event not only highlights the inspiring individuals shaping the future of the bus, coach and community transport sector, but also reinforces our collective commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women."

She said she welcomed the government’s plans to overhaul bus services and she looked forward "to working together to ensure these changes empower a more inclusive, accessible, and innovative future for all".

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