Transport Resource Unit Update - July 09

This is the last TRU newsletter from me as I'll be leaving TRU in a few days to take up a new post at Nottingham CVS. I've really enjoyed my time with TRU and I feel that the project has accomplished a lot in a short space of time. I'm sure that will continue when a new worker is appointed shortly.

My last month here has mostly been taken up by two projects. The LGBT research is still in full swing and we're finding that its an issue that really divides opinion. Some respondents to the survey have questioned whether LGBT issues should be looked at separately to transport issues affecting the general population: "we're all just human beings". However other people have highlighted some quite specific concerns and have welcomed our focus on this. If you identify as LGB or T and want to have your say, please take some time to fill out the survey here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=fPgMXGs7_2bzc3mV_2fuvEW_2bvQ_3d_3d

As well as this, TRU has completed the research into the impact of door-to-door transport on people's health that was started a few months ago. We've looked at how transport affects people's travel choices, how community transport can have a profound effect on people's wellbeing (that isn't currently measured) and also the problems that can occur when access issues aren't adequately addressed by VCS health and social care providers. We hope that the research, Going the Extra Mile, will just be the starting point for more work in this area. The full report can be downloaded below.

TRU's host organisation, GMCVO, is looking for two people to stand for election as honorary board members at its AGM on 26th October. Further details can be found here: http://www.gmcvo.org.uk/?q=node/1495

Finally, I just want to say a big thank you to anyone who has had an involvement in the work of TRU over the last year - it's been a pleasure to work with you. And, as always, if you've got any thoughts on issues that TRU should look at in the future, please get in touch and I'll pass these on to the new worker.

Best wishes,

Melanie