Introduction

Evidence (i) (ii) (iii) supports that transport provision is one of the most significant barriers to accessing employment or training (alongside childcare), which might be access to a car or ability to drive, or public transport which is at the times, frequency and routes necessary, reliable and affordable. Also, safe routes to/ from public transport particularly early in morning or late in evening for shift workers. Cost of travel is, of course, also a barrier.

There are many actors who have a keen interest or role and responsibility in travel to/ from work including employers themselves, local authorities, transport operators and providers, regional transport partnerships (RTPs), local employability partnerships (LEPs), work coaches within DWP, further education and training providers, third sector organisations and more.

By improving employees’ transport access to their workplace and premises, employers can receive the following benefits:

  • Reduced Employer NI Contributions on certain schemes
  • A Greener Corporate Image – supports Environmental, Social, and Governance goals
  • Higher Employee Retention & Satisfaction – offering a valuable perk
  • Attracting New Talent – many employees now prefer workplaces with sustainable benefits
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) benefits contributing to lower carbon emissions

Employability in Scotland has details for both employers and individuals looking for work, training, or skills development, and links through to local support across different areas.

  1. Just above half (51%) of the responses reported that transport has been a barrier for employees or potential employees accessing their employment. 16% responses identified that ‘public transport services don’t match with shift patterns’; 19% responses identified ‘a lack of public transport services’; and 11% responses identified ‘high public transport costs’
  2. Young people (16-24) across the UK report transport as a barrier to accessing opportunities. They have lower car access and use the bus more than older age groups.[21]
  3. importance of making transport more available, affordable and accessible for low-income families