Save Our Service - Community First

With proposed upcoming budget cuts to Hampshire’s community transport schemes, Community First have launched our Save Our Service campaign. As part of this, we’d like your feedback to show the impact of our service and how it affects your way of life.

Tim Houghton, chief executive of Community First, pointed out that travel habits have shifted due to the pandemic. However, he stressed the importance of social connectivity and its role in mental and physical wellbeing.

He said: “Our customers cannot afford to travel independently, and in many cases, other options are simply unavailable, particularly for those with physical disabilities. There is a shortage of accessible vehicles in Hampshire and we’re a lifeline to 4,200 groups who hire buses for regular social trips and outings.”

Currently, Hampshire County Council invests £800,000 in community transport services, but if the proposals are adopted, this funding would be entirely cut from 2025.

Community First is calling on the Government to invest in long-term community transport lifelines and recognise the challenges that councils face in balancing budgets amid increasing demand in social care and children’s services.

To support the Save Our Service campaign, Community First encourages people to write letters to their county councilors, MPs, or us here at Community First and share personal stories about how these proposed cuts may impact them or their loved ones. You can contact Community First by emailing marketing@cfirst.org.uk