Reflecting on Community Transport Week and Positive Ageing Month with May

Last week we celebrated Community Transport Week, a special time to shine a light on the positive impact Community Transport has on people’s lives. It’s a chance to recognise the drivers, coordinators and volunteers who go the extra mile every day and to reflect on how these services help individuals stay connected, independent and part of their community.

As part of our celebrations, we enjoyed a lovely cuppa and chat with May Grant, one of our long-standing service users who has been with us since 2007. May shared how much Community Transport means to her and how it has shaped her life over the years. Her story perfectly captures what community transport is all about connection, companionship and confidence.

For May, the service is far more than a way to get from A to B it’s truly a lifeline. “Without it, I’d have no other way to leave my house,” she told us. “It means I can get to my appointments, meet my friends, and keep a bit of independence.” Her words remind us that accessible and affordable transport is often the bridge between isolation and inclusion, between staying at home and staying connected with the world.

Since joining the service almost two decades ago, May has become part of our community family. Her drivers and fellow passengers aren’t just people she travels with, they’ve become friends. “We always have a bit of craic on the bus,” she said with a smile. May talked about how DART drivers take time to talk to her and see how she is. She mentioned that these small moments of kindness and conversation make the biggest difference.

October is also Positive Ageing Month, which makes May’s story even more meaningful. Staying active, connected, and engaged with others plays a huge role in maintaining wellbeing and mental health as we grow older. For many older adults, transport barriers can make that difficult, but Community Transport helps remove those barriers, ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility, location, or circumstance, can continue to participate fully in community life. “Getting out and about keeps me going,” May shared.

Community Transport is about so much more than vehicles and routes, it’s about people. Behind every journey is a story like May’s, reminding us why these services matter so deeply. Our mission has always been to provide transport that supports independence, fosters friendships and boosts wellbeing. Whether it’s a trip to the shops, a GP appointment, or simply a social outing, every journey contributes to someone’s quality of life and sense of belonging.

As we reflect on both Community Transport Week and Positive Ageing Month, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to all our members, volunteers, and staff who make what we do possible. And a special thank you to May for sharing her story and inspiring us all!