Users of vital transport services that help residents access local services are being asked to share their views to help shape the future of the service.
Community Transport Services provide travel options for residents who may have difficulty using conventional public transport due to disability, age, mobility issues, rural location or other accessibility barriers.
By seeking feedback from users, Essex County Council wants to better understand how services are being used, awareness of the services in local communities and future transport needs.
This is the first countywide survey specifically focused on Community Transport services in Essex.
The survey is part of Essex County Council's ongoing work to better understand Community Transport needs across the county and ensure services continue to meet the needs of residents now and in the future.
The feedback received will help the Council understand:
· How Community Transport services are currently being used.
· Levels of customer satisfaction.
· Barriers to accessing services.
· Areas where there may be unmet demand.
· Opportunities to improve information, communications and accessibility.
· The impact Community Transport has on people's independence and wellbeing.
Community Transport services provide an important lifeline for many residents, helping people access healthcare appointments, shopping, employment, education, social activities and other essential services.
The survey is open to current and previous Community Transport users, carers, family members and residents who would like to learn more about Community Transport in their area.
As part of the survey, residents will also be able to access information about their local Community Transport provider and provide feedback on the information and support available through provider websites and communications.
The findings will help inform future Community Transport planning, service development, funding and commissioning decisions. As the first countywide survey specifically focused on Community Transport services in Essex, it will also establish a baseline understanding of resident awareness, satisfaction and transport needs, enabling the Council to measure future improvements and ensure services continue to meet the needs of local communities.
Councillor Mark Webster, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said:
"Community Transport services provide a vital link for many Essex residents, helping people stay connected to their communities and access essential services. We are keen to hear from as many people as possible so we can understand how our residents are using these services and where we can make improvements to ensure these vital transport services continue to meet user need.”
Residents can complete the survey online at:
https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/iptu/community-transport-user-and-awareness-survey-2026
The survey
Opens 1 Sep 2026
Closes on 30 Sep 2026
