Plymouth minibus operator DAn Travel has launched a new community initiative, Miles that Matter, offering free monthly day trips to local charities as part of a push to grow its name and embed social value into its expanding private hire operation.
The scheme begins in April. DAn Travel will supply a driver, vehicle and fuel at no cost to selected charities to take service users, volunteers or staff on a day out with no need to fundraise. Trips will typically involve a 16- or 19-seat minibus travelling up to 40 miles from Plymouth. Allocation will take place on a first-come, first-served basis.
Each charity will also be featured across the operator’s social media channels for one month, promoting its work and signposting support services. The first beneficiary is YMCA Plymouth, supporting its ‘Y’s’ group, which works to reduce isolation among elderly people.
Pursuing the scheme has seen DAn Travel grow its presence, expanding from being a school transport provider to private hire, day trips, and airport transfers.
Astra Bassett, Marketing and Commercial Manager at DAn Travel and former YMCA Families and Youth Trustee, is behind the idea. She says the concept emerged shortly after she joined the company in December 2025.
“We cover the cost of fuel, miles and drivers, but nobody is really out of pocket. It’s a nice way of saying thank you and raising awareness at the same time.”
Founded in 2024 by Dan Pacurariu and Adrian Stoleriu, DAn Travel began with SEND school transport contracts for Plymouth City Council. The business currently operates six vehicles on its O-Licence, with plans to increase to nine.
The programme has been endorsed by Head of YMCA Plymouth and member of the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Tom Lavis.
Ms Bassett encourages other operators to pursue similar schemes. “It’s good PR,” she says. “People had not really heard of us before; now we’re seen as part of the community.”
The ambition is for the scheme to expand beyond its first year, and Ms Bassett hopes the company will buy its first coach. In the meantime, charities and non-profit community interest companies are encouraged to reach out to take part.
