1. The National Dementia Declaration lists seven outcomes that the DAA are seeking to achieve for people with dementia and their carers. How would you describe your organisation’s role in delivering better outcomes for people with dementia and their carers?

Accessible, safe and dependable public transport is a priority for older people, and this includes people with dementia.  However, in delivering this, there are greater challenges, and staff need to be aware of the specific requirements of individuals to ensure that they can receive the service they deserve.   Public transport can also help in raising awareness amongst the wider population, through demonstrable good practice, but also promotion and awareness on vehicles and information platforms.  Additionally, public transport operators can work with health workers and the police to ensure that the safety and security of people with dementia is protected.

2. What are the challenges to delivering these outcomes from the perspective of your organisation?

Dealing with the individual needs of thousands of passengers every day can be challenging, particularly when those needs are not immediately apparent.  The challenges of operating bus services means that for front line staff there are also other conflicting priorities, including the need to maintain service.  The delivery of co-ordinated high quality training can also be a challenge for bus companies with large numbers of remote workers.

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