17/07/2026
Following a number of comments and posts circulating on social media, we would like to take the opportunity to clarify a few important points.
At Swindon Community Action, we have not cancelled any transport routes. Our priority has always been to ensure every route is covered wherever possible. While staff sickness can occasionally occur unexpectedly, we always work hard to provide cover using our bank drivers, passenger assistants, and, when necessary, our fully trained office staff.
Cancelling a route is always an absolute last resort. During my 10+ years with the organisation, I cannot recall a single occasion where we have cancelled a route ourselves. Our focus has always been on the children we support. We understand how important it is for them to attend school safely and maintain their daily routines, as well as the impact this has on their families.
During the recent period of hot weather, the conditions were challenging for both the children and our employees. Throughout this time, we followed the guidance provided by the local authority and raised our concerns regarding the increasing temperatures. However, decisions regarding the operation or suspension of transport services rested with the council, not with Swindon Community Action.
There have also been questions regarding our vehicles. Our fleet complies with the contractual requirements, including appropriate ventilation. While many of our vehicles are older, we have always maintained them to the required standards and continued to provide safe and reliable transport. We have consistently raised the challenges facing transport providers and sought support where appropriate.
To be clear, the recent route cancellations were decisions made by the council and were not made by Swindon Community Action.
On occasions where resources have been stretched, we have proposed alternative solutions, such as "double running," where a driver completes one route before immediately undertaking another to ensure children still arrive safely at school. We have always explored every possible option before considering any disruption to service.
For the past 17 years, Swindon Community Action has been proud to provide transport services to those who need them most. We would like to thank every member of our team, past and present, for their commitment, professionalism, and dedication to supporting our community.
While some of our transport contracts are coming to an end, we will continue providing services from September where applicable. We also wish the new providers every success in delivering these services.
Finally, we would like to thank everyone who has supported Swindon Community Action over the years. We remain incredibly proud of what we have achieved and of the difference our team has made to so many families within our community.
