Convener’s Foreword

As I reflect on my first year as Convener of MACS, I am delighted to report that it has been a year marked by transformation, learning, and renewed momentum. The past twelve months have seen significant development in how the Committee works, engages, and looks ahead, and I am proud of the progress we have made together.

From the outset, I have benefited from the support of the MACS Committee members, whose collective expertise, insight, and lived experience have been central to my transition into the role. Their openness, constructive challenge, and shared commitment have underpinned an effective and productive year of work.

A key focus of my first year has been relationship‑building — within the Committee itself, and across our wider landscape. We have strengthened our engagement with colleagues in Transport Scotland, the Scottish Government, and Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs), recognising that meaningful progress on accessible transport depends on collaboration, shared understanding, and sustained dialogue.

This year has also brought a marked change in the Committee’s membership, as we bid farewell to our members who had completed their final terms with MACS; Joanne Devitt, Michael Tornow, and Naghat Ahmed. Their knowledge, expertise, and the valuable lived experience each brought to the Committee will be greatly missed. However, we were pleased to welcome Andrew Witty, Diana Winfield, Kate Samuels, Rachel Birch, and Simon Whyte to MACS, each introducing valuable skills, perspectives, and lived experience.

As we look ahead, MACS moves forward refreshed, resilient, and ready for the year to come. We anticipate working closely with the new Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport and will continue to prioritise engagement as we raise our profile and advocate for disabled people across Scotland. Our purpose remains clear: to challenge barriers, influence policy, and ensure that transport systems are designed, delivered, and experienced as accessible for all.