Mobility and Access Committee for Scotland (MACS) – Minutes of Quarterly Board Meeting - 23 July 2024

Attendees

• Linda Bamford, MACS Convener (LB)
• Simon Watkins, MACS Vice-Convener & Rail Lead (SW)
• Anne MacLeod, MACS Ferries & Aviation Lead (AM)
• Lesley Macinnes, MACS Bus & Community Transport Co-Lead (LM)
• Lynn Pilkington, MACS Planning & Strategy Lead (LP)
• Susan Fulton, MACS Roads, Infrastructure & Active Travel Lead (SF)
• Catherine Barile, MACS Member (CB)
• Joanne Devitt, MACS Member (JD)
• Lynsey Shovlin, MACS Member (LS)
• Michael Tornow, MACS Member (MT)
• Naghat Ahmed, MACS Member (NA)
• Nariese Whyte, MACS Member (NW)
• Zara Todd, MACS Member (ZT)
• Bethany Sharp, Transport Scotland Head of Stakeholder Engagement (BS)
• David Keltie-Armstrong, MACS Head of Secretariat (DKA)
• Gordon McIntosh, MACS Secretariat Policy & Support Officer (Minutes) (GM)

Presenting

• Ravi Grandhi, Transport Scotland Sustainable and Active Travel Programme Manager (RG)
• Lisa Fallon, Transport Scotland Active Travel People and Place Team Lead (LF)
• Judith Connell, Kidney Care UK Policy Officer Scotland (JC)
• Nick Palmer, Kidney Care UK Patient Ambassador, and Involvement Lead (NP)

Observing

• Melissa Shute, Transport Scotland Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator (MS)

Apologies

• Elliot Cooper, MACS Planning, Strategy & Engagement Lead (EP)

Purpose of meeting

The purpose of this Legislative Board Meeting is to provide quarterly updates from each work stream, receive an update from the Sponsorship Team regarding changes within Transport Scotland, hear from external guests to inform our work via two spotlight sessions. These sessions will include a presentation from the Active Travel Team within Transport Scotland and a presentation from Kidney Care UK about their recent report on in-centre dialysis transport in Scotland.

Agenda Item 1: Welcome, Apologies and Housekeeping – LB

LB opened the meeting with a welcome and housekeeping notes, confirmed the attendees and the agenda. This is a legislatively required meeting that occurs quarterly, and minutes should be with the Committee within ten working days.

Agenda Item 2: Approval of Minutes and update on action points from the previous two Board Meetings - LB

The committee has approved the minutes from the April 2024 Board meeting. All completed action points were accepted, closing all action points from the January 2024 board meeting. The Secretariat will finalise the outstanding tasks, which have also been approved.

Action Point 1: Secretariat to continue to seek information about ScotRail’s recovery post pandemic and update MACS Rail Lead. Action point now closed from Board meeting log.

Action Point 2: Request Transport Scotland (TS) to disaggregate the data between concessions, over 60s, under 22s and disabled people. Additionally, ask TS to examine if data can be disaggregated to show geographical use of concessionary travel. This data is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding of where disabled people are/can use concessionary travel and where they can’t, feeding into the ambition to close the mobility gap.

Action Point 3: Contact Living Streets Edinburgh to inquire if they have photographs that can be used to support the RIAT workstreams’ photo bank of temporary roadworks.

Agenda Item 3: Updates and Changes from Sponsor Paper - BS

Mr. Fairlie discussed sector challenges and opportunities with the Community Transport Association, with a follow-up meeting with Glenfarg Community Transport planned.

ScotRail has extended the removal of peak fares until September 2024.

The 2024-2026 Accessible Travel Framework Delivery Plan, incorporating MACS feedback, is now under review by the National Transport Accessibility Steering Group, aiming for a September publication.

Over £7 million announced for electric vehicle infrastructure. Seven new electric ferries planned to support island communities, with contract awards expected in March 2025.

The Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill (LDAN) submission is under review.

The Transport Just Transition Plan, including a 20% car km reduction target, continues to engage with COSLA, with further updates expected.

The Community Bus Fund had £5 million capital and £0.75 million resource funding in 2023-24, supporting feasibility projects for local transport authorities. The fund will continue with £1 million resource and £5 million capital in the 2024-25 Scottish Budget.

MT asks BS about the redevelopment of the TraveLine app and how will it rectify its accessibility issues with screen readers.

LB makes the Committee aware of public TraveLine Scotland webinar sessions occurring on the Wednesday 24 July, 15:00-16:00 and Wednesday 7 August, 15:00-16:00. LB gave a commitment to raise the issue of app compatibility with screen readers again and confirmed she had raised it at previous sessions.

SW inquired about the Transport Equality Group (TEG) and asked BS how they envision the future of TEG and how it will differ from its previous iteration.

BS outlined the history and background. The newly established TEG will inform on current societal issues and will be open to developing its scope in collaboration with members. The group aims to shape transport policy across Scotland covering all modes of transport.

LP requested that LB create a visual diagram to illustrate how all these groups fit in with the Transport Equality Group (TEG).

LB inquired about the 20% reduction route map, asking if there have been any changes or if it still adheres to the four core principles.

BS responded that the core principles remain unchanged.

Action Point 4: BS to ask the TS team for the information on the TraveLine app’s accessibility.

Action Point 5: BS to share further information on TEG with MACS.

Action Point 6: LB to share the diagram with the Secretariat for confirmation and subsequent distribution.

Action Point 7: BS to verify if there are any changes to the 20% reduction route map or if the core principles remain.

Agenda Item 4: Spotlight Session and Q&A on Active Travel – RG & LF

Presenters: RG and LF presented to the committee on Active Travel developments, covering topics such as the outcome framework, infrastructure and behaviour change, and financial details including a steady increase in the active travel budget.

Key Points from Q&A Session:

1. Floating Bus Stops:

• Inquiry: MT raised a question regarding the presence of floating bus stops in the projects presented.

• Response: RG clarified that no such bus stops designs are included in the current presentation.

2. Funding Allocation Concerns:

• Inquiry: MT expressed concern that while walking and wheeling are prioritised in the Sustainable Travel hierarchy, the majority of funding appears to be directed towards cycling paths.

• Response: LF explained that the focus on cycling infrastructure is largely due to safety concerns. Additionally, the presentation highlighted improvements to paths that support walking, wheeling, and cycling.

3. Consideration for Disabled People:

• Inquiry: LM asked how the needs of disabled people are being considered and quantified in project assessments and post-implementation evaluations.

• Response: LF indicated that this is an ongoing focus, with monitoring and evaluation processes being key for the upcoming year, and feedback from users being collected for improvements.

4. Use of Cycles as Mobility Aids:

• Inquiry: LM inquired about data on cycles used as mobility aids.

• Response: LF will investigate the availability of such data. An action point was set for the Secretariat to liaise with TS Active Travel to gather information.

5. Alignment with Other Government Initiatives:

• Inquiry: LM questioned how the projects align with other government initiatives like the Local Authority drop kerb programme.

• Response: LF detailed collaboration with Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs) to support various actions, while RG mentioned that the Active Travel Infrastructure Fund includes provisions for funding for dropped kerbs and other small-scale improvements

• Comment: LB reminded all present that the 32 LAs in Scotland had been sent a copy of MACS guidance “small changes can make a big difference”

6. Outreach to Marginalised Groups:

• Inquiry: SF asked about strategies to reach marginalised groups, including rural communities and disabled people, to raise awareness of the projects.

• Response: LF acknowledged the challenge and emphasised the importance of extending engagement beyond already involved groups, with a focus on knowledge sharing with RTPs and supporting users of non standard cycles.

7. Funding for Non Standard Cycles Infrastructure:

• Inquiry: MT inquired about funding for infrastructure to accommodate adaptive bikes.

• Response: RG noted that the infrastructure is designed to meet Cycling by Design standards, but further consideration will be given during application reviews.

8. Perception of Cycling Focus:

• Inquiry: SW noted a perception that the Active Travel Team initiatives are overly focused on cycling, highlighting that the original 2019 plan did not include wheeling.

• Response: LF and RG acknowledged this perception and suggested an opportunity to enhance the focus on wheeling behaviour change.

9. Impact of Floating Bus Stops on Equality:

• Inquiry: MT asked whether TS Active Travel Team is aware of the negative impacts of floating bus stops on disabled people and if meaningful equality impact assessments had been produced?

• Response: RG confirmed awareness and mentioned ongoing work with partners like Living Streets and the Department for Transport (DfT) to address these concerns in future assessments.

Action Point 8: Secretariat to liaise with TS Active Travel to understand what data is held on the number of people using non standard cycles as mobility aids.

Agenda Item 5: Spotlight Session and Q&A from Kidney Care UK with JC & NP

Presenters: JC and NP from Kidney Care UK presented on the topic of ‘In-Centre Dialysis Transport in Scotland,’ highlighting a recently published report and its recommendations for improving this life-saving treatment.

Key Points from Q&A Session:

1. Historical Context and Recommendations Alignment:

• Comment: LB thanked Kidney Care UK and noted that the National Audit Office identified issues with dialysis transport in 2011. Despite predictable travel patterns for dialysis patients, there has been little progress to deliver improved transport provision.

• Observation: LB emphasised that Kidney Care UK's recommendations align with MACS' Recommendations One from there work on Transport to Health and Social Care.

Recommendation One

Transport should be built in as an integral part of the care pathway. Their needs to be better joined up care planning and working with NHS, Local Authorities and SAS, with CTA recognised as key partners in the planning and care pathway.

2. Common Complaints Related to Dialysis Transport:

• Inquiry: LB asked about common complaints concerning dialysis transport.

• Response: JC reported ongoing difficulties, such as the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) struggling to pick up patients and a complex reimbursement process. JC emphasised the need for the patient transport service review to prioritise disabled groups.

3. Coordination with Scottish Ambulance Service:

• Suggestion: LB proposed that Kidney Care UK contact the SAS to establish better connections, seek involvement in the impending reviews of the Patient Needs Assessment, Escort Criteria and demand profiling project to share their knowledge to inform the and improvement of

4. Reimbursement Patterns Across Local Authorities and Health Boards:

• Inquiry: SW asked about reimbursement patterns.

• Response: LB explained that means testing is based on the individual already receiving a gateway benefit but this excludes many people on low incomes and often exacerbates poverty given the frequency and cost of non reimbursement of travel.

• Comment: JC noting that kidney patients frequently face similar issues, often relying on private taxis due to inadequate public transport options and being too unwell to travel after dialysis.

5. Collaboration with MACS:

• Inquiry: JC inquired about how Kidney Care UK can collaborate with MACS to contribute to the National Transport to Healthcare Delivery Plan.

• Response: LB acknowledged the importance of this collaboration and suggested that MACS would advocate (to the Delivery Plan Leads and owners – SG Primary Care Team) that Kidney Care UK's would be a knowledgeable and valuable stakeholder. LB also mentioned the importance of sharing insights from England with MACS' counterparts.

Action Point 9: MACS Secretariat to share the report by KCUK with the MACS equivalent bodies such as DPTAC and IMTAC.

Agenda Item 6: Secretariat Update – DKA

DKA updated the committee on the current situation on the Western Isles air travel issues and the impact on passengers, particularly those travelling for health care. Whilst Scottish Government role is limited in this area, officials and Ministers are sighted on the situation and Cabinet Secretary for Health intends to hold a round table with key stakeholders soon.

AM asks if they will be able to attend the in person round table? DKA advised the list of attendees is currently awaiting ministerial clearance, but MACS are on the proposed list to attend.

LM says they can provide AM and DKA insight on the challenges and barriers within Local Authorities due to there background.

LB notes that the Equality Impact Assessments are still not being conducted to a suitable level expressing disappointment at the impact assessment for the change of contract by Western Isles Council for vital and lifeline air service provision.

Action Point 10: DKA to set up a call with AM and LM.

Agenda Item 7: Workstream Leads Update – LB

SW provided an update on the recent developments in the rail sector, noting the Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Bill which will remove the presumption in favour of private sector operation of franchised passenger services to facilitate Government’s commitment to bring such train operations back into public ownership when current franchise contracts end.

SW updates the committee on The Rail Reform Bill, which will introduce a new watchdog, a Passenger Standards Authority, and MACS proposed to have a statutory role in this entity.

SF asked if MACS' role as a consultee parallels DPTAC's role with the Department for Transport (DfT). SW confirmed that this is correct where it impacts rail in Scotland.

LP asked for minutes of a recent meeting with CalMac and questions about the Global Innovation Hub.

SF responded, on the Global Innovation Hub and suggested checking the historic online seminar section of their website for relevant information.

Action Point 11: Secretariat to send LP the recommendations to CalMac made by Zara.

Action Point 12: Secretariat to obtain slides for spotlight sessions ahead of the board and ask for Alt Text for images to used. The Secretariat will create a standardised quarterly report template and accessibility guidelines for spotlight sessions, including biographies to ensure the spotlight sessions are accessible to all members of the committee.

Action Points

1. Action Point 1: Secretariat to continue to seek information about ScotRail’s recovery post pandemic and update MACS Rail Lead. Action point now closed from Board meeting log.

• Owner – GM
• Action – Another chaser email has been sent on 31/07/2024.
• Status – Closed.

2. Action Point 2: Request Transport Scotland (TS) to disaggregate the data between concessions, Over 60’s, and disabled people. Additionally, ask them to examine geographical areas. This data is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding of mobility issues.

• Owner – GM
• Action – I have emailed Craig Clymont (Alan Shirley provided their contact information) to ask if this can be done. 10/10/24 update: Several Emails have been sent to Craig Clymont and it has now been escalated to ensure MACS receive a response. GM to circulate to MACS once a response is rec
• Status – Complete

3. Action Point 3: Contact Living Streets Edinburgh to inquire if they have photographs that can be used to support the RIAT workstreams’ photo bank of temporary roadworks.

• Owner – GM
• Action – David Hunter has sent the Mailbox an online bank of photographs.
• Status – Complete

4. Action Point 4: BS to ask the correct team for the information on the TraveLine app’s accessibility.

• Owner – BS
• Action –Several MACS members attended webinars hosted by TraveLine to learn about this topic.
• Status – Complete

5. Action Point 5: BS to share more information on TEG with MACS.

• Owner – BS
• Action – LB and EC to continue to attend the TEG meetings.
• Status – Complete

6. Action Point 6: LB to share the diagram with the Secretariat for confirmation and subsequent distribution.

• Owner – LB
• Action – LB has completed this and it has reached LP.
• Status – Complete

7. Action Point 7: BS to verify if there are any changes to the 20% reduction route map or if it remains as is.

• Owner – BS
• Action – An update will be provided during the Just Transition Spotlight Session by John White.
• Status – Complete

8. Action Point 8: Secretariat to chase Active Travel to find figures on the number of people using non standard cycles as mobility aids.

• Owner – GM
• Action – Active Travel do not have enough data from surveys to produce robust statistics. GM contacted Cycling UK for statistics on Non-standard cycles but they do not differentiate between bikes on their annual cycling report and surveys. The only useful statistic they could provide is that 8% of disabled people participated in at least 30 minutes of cycling within the four weeks prior to the survey.
• Status –Complete

9. Action Point 9: Secretariat to share the report by KCUK with the MACS equivalent bodies such as DPTAC.

• Owner – GM
• Action – This has been sent.
• Status –Complete

10. Action Point 10: DKA to set up a call with AM and LM on the Western Isles Flight Issue.

• Owner – DKA
• Action – The meeting was no longer needed as AM attended the Western Isles Roundtable as a representative of MACS.
• Status – Not Started.

11. Action Point 11: Secretariat to send LP the recommendations made by ZT to CalMac.

• Owner – GM
• Action – GM has shared the document with LP.
• Status – Complete

12. Action Point 12: Secretariat to obtain slides for spotlight sessions ahead of the board and ask for Alt Text for images to used. The Secretariat will create accessibility guidelines for spotlight sessions, including biographies to ensure the spotlight sessions are accessible to all members of the committee.

• Owner – GM
• Action – DKA has shared the current spotlight guidance with GM. GM will update this with the actions and points raised by MT and set it up so that all future spotlight sessions will receive the guidance.
• Status – Complete