The Women in Bus and Coach “Spotlight On” initiative shines a light on the incredible contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach, and community transport sector. From professional drivers and engineers to human resources experts and CEO’s, ‘Spotlight On’ will highlight the diverse talents and achievements of women in this dynamic industry.
Today we focus on and find out about:
Elenid Roberts
Community Transport Coordinator
Yr Orsaf
What is your role?
My role title is ‘Cymru Fydd Project Manager’, which involves co-ordinating our Community Transport scheme ‘O Fama I Fana’ based in Dyffryn Nantlle, Gwynedd.
How did you get to where you are today?
I started working for the Yr Orsaf back in September 2021 and my role was to set up a community transport scheme. I came from a background of working in events and the television industry, this was very helpful in the organisational side however I knew little about community transport. With the help of CTA and building relationships with other enterprises I now have developed a community transport scheme consisting of three electric vehicles, 1 employed driver, 7 volunteer drivers, and we are providing transport to up to 150 individuals / groups. We are also a part of ‘Gwynedd Community Transport Partnership’ with three other community enterprises in Gwynedd.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Challenges did arise, consisting of funding, trouble with getting the right and affordable insurance, managing to provide our service when vehicles broke down.
If so, how did you overcome then?
Again, it was the support of our new partners, being able to share information and experiences in regard to funding and insurances. Also being able to help each other when experiencing trouble with the vehicles. CTA also played a big part in helping us by providing support and advice.
What do you like about the sector?
Is the difference you bring to people’s lives and building a relationship with the community.
What does a typical day look like?
No day is the same, but generally it consists of taking calls and managing transport bookings, completing administration work, working on grant applications / reports. Planning social activities linked to our transport scheme and working on how to further develop our services.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
Go for it! From my experience seeing the difference you are making to your community is worthwhile. Also, before working in this sector I had the preconception that it was going to be a very male dominated sector, however for me this has not been the case.
What has been your bus or coach sector career highlight?
The individuals that I have met and seeing the difference our service provides them.
What three things could the Bus, Coach or Community Transport sector do to improve the industry for Women?
The main one, not specifically for women, but getting further support on how to secure long term funding would be very beneficial so that community transport schemes can keep people in longer employment and to help reach more individuals who need the service.
For women; In an industry where it’s perceived more male dominant it would be good to celebrate or highlight the different roles that women play in Community Transport such as women drivers. Also having flexibility for women in the workplace (family / work balance) would also be beneficial.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
In this sector we heavily rely on funding, so I hope that the scheme will be able to continue and that I will continue providing our services to the community and hopefully that we have succeeded to further develop our partnerships across Gwynedd.
Elenid, thank you for sharing — your journey is a real source of inspiration!
To find out more about who Elenid works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.yrorsaf.cymru/en/
