Our story
South West Community Transport has its roots in a shared vision to improve access to transport for local communities across Greater Pollok and South West Glasgow.
In 2003, community transport providers from across the city came together to form the Glasgow Community Transport Operators Group (GCTOG). Local minibus operators from Greater Pollok played an active role in this partnership, helping to identify the growing need for reliable, accessible community transport services.
The following year, GCTOG successfully secured funding through the Scottish Executive’s Urban Community Transport Initiative, supporting the development of community transport services across Glasgow. This included several pilot projects, such as Hospital Visiting Services and transport initiatives aimed at helping young people access opportunities within their communities.
In September 2004, funding from GCTOG and the Key Fund enabled the development of a Hospital Visiting Service in Greater Pollok. The project also explored new ways of coordinating local transport resources and expanding voluntary transport services to better meet community needs.
The service launched in November 2004, providing residents with transport to visit family and friends in hospitals that were difficult to reach using public transport. Working collaboratively with local organisations, the project brought together six minibuses and one people carrier from seven community groups, making the best use of existing resources while delivering a valuable local service.
As demand grew, a three-year business plan was developed in 2006 to support the future growth of the organisation. In 2007, funding from the Key Fund and Fair Share Fund enabled the team to recruit a full-time Transport Co-ordinator, a part-time Administrator, and a part-time Driver/Trainer, strengthening the organisation’s capacity and reach.
Originally managed by ASCEND (formerly the Greater Pollok Community Forum) through its Transport Steering Group, the project continued to evolve. In 2009, South West Community Transport became an independent charity and company limited by guarantee, marking an important milestone in its development.
Since then, South West Community Transport has grown significantly. Today, we operate a fleet of fully accessible vehicles and employ a dedicated team committed to providing safe, affordable, and inclusive transport services. We continue to support individuals, community groups, and organisations across South West Glasgow, helping people stay connected, independent, and engaged in their communities.