All change! Women were in the driving seat as part of a campaign to smash stereotypes.
Bus company Konectbus invited women from across Essex and Suffolk to take part in its ‘I Drove a Bus!’ event which was held at the historic St Osyth Priory.
The female-focused challenge sought to raise awareness of the opportunities for women to take on traditionally male dominated careers including as bus drivers.
Currently, only about 11% of bus drivers nationally are women and Konectbus wants to help redress the balance and hopefully recruit more women to the ranks.
More than 30 women stepped forward on Saturday to swap their hatchbacks for a 12 tonne, 10 metre long double decker bus…and they loved it!
Under the expert guidance of professional trainers, they learnt how to manoeuvre the colossal vehicle in the grounds of the priory including performing three point turns and reversing.
Friends and family members were invited to sponsor the drivers with every donation going to Mid and North East Essex Mind which supports essential services for people facing mental health challenges.
Davina Langley, from Konectbus, said: “It was a simply brilliant day. The participants thoroughly enjoyed themselves and proved, beyond doubt, that women are more than capable of becoming bus drivers.
“However, this event was about more than driving – it was about driving change. We want women to see that a career in bus driving is exciting, rewarding and achievable. We hope this event helped to raise awareness and we get more female drivers to join our team.”
Sarah Wilson, Fundraising Manager at Mid and North East Essex Mind, added: “We were delighted to be part of Konectbus’ ‘I Drove a Bus!’ event and grateful for the support from everyone who took part.
“Buses are a vital part of keeping our community connected and we know how important that connection is for people’s wellbeing. It was a great opportunity to raise awareness of our charity and we had some powerful conversations with guests.”
Public transport plays a vital role in connecting people, particularly in rural and coastal areas, and is instrumental in reducing isolation and supporting mental wellbeing.
A career as a bus driver provides women with great flexibility in their working hours and the chance to work in a sociable environment.
