The government is supporting a drive to encourage taking up driving a bus as a career.
Minister for Roads and Buses Simon Lightwood has endorsed the recruitment push, in which the Department for Transport quotes drivers from around the country recommending the job.
Highlighting figures which show a 3.4% shortage in bus drivers and 12.4% shortage of coach drivers, the government is promoting the benefits of such a career.
It says on offer are a fast progression and competitive salaries, with a good work-life balance and strong long-term prospects in the industry.
It suggests that the new Bus Services Act will lead to more roles for bus drivers, given the provision for protections for socially necessary services.
Mr Lightwood says: “These testimonies from our brilliant bus and coach drivers show just how rewarding a career this is.
“It truly offers something for everyone, from those weighing up what’s next after summer exams to people looking for a radical change.
“With our £3 billion investment in services for the next three years and our Bus Services Act now law, there has never been a better time to get involved in this wonderful industry and I hope to see more talented drivers over the coming years.”
Among those quoted is Rhys Stirling, a 21-year-old driver for Stagecoach South West.
He says: “Ever since I could walk, I’ve had a passion for buses and the industry, and growing up, when everyone dreamt of being footballers I always simply wanted to be a bus driver.
“Passing my test was a dream come true, finally getting behind the wheel of a bus on my own and leaving that depot for the first time meant I’d made it.
“Not many people can actually say they accomplished their dream in life, but I can. Being in this industry is fantastic and it’s flexible enough to allow you to put as many hours in as you want. There aren’t many jobs that give you the opportunity to travel the length of the country.”
Tia Stalham, a 21-year-old driver for Stagecoach Cumbria, adds: “I enjoy being a bus driver because it is always different. No matter where you drive, it is always different people and a different scenery – especially in the Lakes. I enjoy being able to have a laugh with the tourists and having a good catch-up with the locals.
“Bus driving offers so much: helping your community, making friends with your colleagues and opportunities to meet people from all over. If you like driving and working independently while still interacting with the public, it is great.
“There is a sense of purpose and pride when you’re driving, providing a service to lots of people and a different kind of responsibility as there’s a trust with passengers’ safety and wellbeing.”
Daejanelle Hayden, a 20-year-old from Go-Ahead London, adds: “I love being a bus driver because I’m often the first or last person someone sees at the start or end of their day. That small moment of connection really matters.
“Every shift I’m taking people to work, school, interviews, and home – real milestones in their lives. I genuinely enjoy helping people and this job lets me do that every single day.
“I’m proud that buses are accessible to everyone, including women, children, and people with disabilities. It is transport that truly includes all.
“Working with Go-Ahead Group makes that even more meaningful because inclusivity is not just talked about, it is lived.”
