18/06/2026
A huge well done to our Chelsea Scott, Bus Driver and Emma-Jane Downie, Leading Driver for the calm, professional way they handled a safeguarding situation on a late evening service in Havant.
Chelsea has been with the company for 6 months and came into bus driving after previously working in childcare, where she developed a strong awareness of safeguarding and supporting vulnerable people. She said she enjoys the responsibility of driving larger vehicles and building her confidence through experience on different routes and services.
On the night of the incident, Chelsea quickly recognised that a young passenger on board was vulnerable and appeared lost. She reassured her, continued to check on her throughout the journey, and immediately contacted the depot when she felt something wasn’t right.
Emma has worked in the industry for around 20 years and has been with Stagecoach for 15 years. She started out as a driver and worked her way into a senior operational role within the depot, supporting colleagues with cover, diversions, and day-to-day running of services. She also has a family connection to the industry, following in her father’s footsteps, who was also a bus driver.
Emma responded immediately, heading out to meet the service, where she met Chelsea and safely took over care of the young passenger. From there, Emma ensured the girl was supported and then personally transported her safely home to her family.
Chelsea said: “I kept checking in the mirror to make sure she was okay. I just knew something wasn’t right, and I wasn’t going to leave her.”
Emma said: “It’s just natural for me. You read the situation and you know the next steps to keep someone safe. You’ve got to act on it when you know something isn’t right.”
She also added: “We do more than just drive buses, we’re always looking out for people, especially when they’re vulnerable.”
Working together, Chelsea and Emma ensured the child was safely supported throughout and returned home to her family that evening.
A huge thank you to both Chelsea and Emma for the way they stepped up, stayed calm, and made a real difference when it mattered most.
