Mind the Gap
The current transport system is failing us. We’re calling for a fairer and greener transport system that works for all of society–tackling poverty and inequality while reducing climate emissions.
Transport is about more than just moving people. It’s a lifeline to daily life, work, school, and community wellbeing.
Yet, significant gaps remain in our current system—women, children, disabled people, and low-income households do not have equal access to transport.
These inequities limit opportunities and deepen inequality.
We must create a transport system that proves fair, reliable access while tackling poverty, inequality, and the climate crisis.
We must create a transport system that works for everyone.
For low-income households, transport costs can represent a significant financial burden, limiting access to essential services and opportunities.
In rural areas, limited public transport options exacerbate isolation and economic disadvantage compared to urban regions with more robust networks.
Young people often face challenges related to affordability and accessibility of transport, affecting their education and employment opportunities.
Women and older adults may encounter safety and convenience issues, while people with disabilities often struggle with the inadequacies of transport infrastructure and services.
Addressing these inequalities is crucial for creating a fairer, more inclusive transport system that supports all citizens while contributing to Scotland’s climate goals.
Tackling inequalities – a discussion in Parliament
The Scottish Parliament Cross Party Group on Sustainable Transport, for which we provide the Secretariat, is currently examining transport inequalities in Scotland.
This initiative is driven by the intersection of pressing issues: the cost-of-living crisis, the climate emergency, and the need to improve public health.
The group’s objective is to ensure that efforts to mitigate climate change do not exacerbate existing disparities among groups who are already struggling to meet their travel needs.
How can sustainable transport break the cycle of poverty?
19 June 2024
Transform policy officer Laura Hyde-White reports on the Sustainable Transport Cross Party Group’s latest meeting, which focused on the intersection of transport and poverty. The recent meeting of the Cross…
Cross Party Group
Transform Scotland provides the secretariat for the Scottish Parliament Cross-Party Group on Sustainable Transport.
Tackling transport inequality: A new mission for the Cross Party Group on Sustainable Transport
25 April 2024
After the successful completion of two inquiries, the Cross Party Group (CPG) on Sustainable Transport is shifting its focus to a pressing issue…
The series will focus on the transport experiences of various demographic groups in order to inform what transport policy should look like to ensure all sections of society benefit.
CPG meetings will hear evidence on the transport experiences of: those living on low incomes, young people, women, older people, and people with disabilities. Discussion will also cover the difference in transport needs across different geographies (i.e. urban vs rural).
The group’s findings will inform policy recommendations to ensure sustainable transport solutions are fair and effective in reducing emissions without disproportionately impacting those already facing transport challenges.
How can sustainable transport break the cycle of poverty?
19 June 2024
Transform policy officer Laura Hyde-White reports on the Sustainable Transport Cross Party Group’s latest meeting, which focused on the intersection of transport and poverty. The recent meeting of the Cross…
Does transport worsen gender inequality?
8 March 2024
This International Women’s Day, policy officer Laura Hyde-White reflects on the role of transport in the lives of women and asks ‘Who benefits from our transport systems, and who is…
Government delays on fair fares threaten Scotland’s most vulnerable passengers
31 August 2023
Our latest report ‘Off Track’ finds that Scotland’s most vulnerable transport users are being neglected by Government delays. The Scottish Government had promised to report on its Fair Fares Review…