by Claire Smith
HCT Group is the world’s leading transport social enterprise, safely providing over 30 million passenger trips on our buses every year and making a real difference in our communities. They joined Women in Transport in November 2019 as corporate members.
In our latest member insight blog, Claire Smith, Head of Community Transport and Stakeholder Engagement for HCT Group, tells us what she likes about working in the transport sector, what her job involves and why she joined Women in Transport.
What does your current job involve?
I am the Head of Community Transport and Stakeholder Engagement for HCT Group. Our services include Group Transport (minibus hire) for local Community groups and organisations in Hackney, Haringey, Camden and Islington; a mobility scooter scheme in Camden and Islington and Dial-A-Ride contracted through TfL. In addition we operate the 812 Community Bus in partnership with Islington Council. This is a hail and ride service, operating five days a week. In brief, I am responsible for identifying and leading on new business opportunities, ensuring the smooth running of all services and contracts that we deliver as well as marketing and social media at a local level, writing reports and being the lead contact for all stakeholders, partners and funders.
What's the best thing about your job?
Meeting so many different people, from all walks of life. Each has a story, reason and purpose for being a member of Community Transport. It is incredible to work in an organisation that offers a true life line to the local community.
How did you become involved in the transport industry?
A colleague I used to work with (now a very good friend!) called me and told me about the role. I was unsure at first, I had dedicated my professional career (and previous voluntary work) to children, young people and ex-offenders / those at risk and could not see the connect between criminal justice and transport … but having read the job description and person specification, it was clear – the common thread was supporting and enabling individuals and Community Transport cuts right to the centre of that belief and value - that makes me tick.
What do you like about working in transport?
The impact. The meaning behind what we do. Not just as an organisation, but as an industry. Community Transport is a critical part of the day to day lives of those who cannot access mainstream public transport, have limited mobility and or impaired vision and cannot cycle (all of which are part of the Mayor of London’s strategy to get 80% of London moving and out of cars by 2040). It is also perfect for local community groups and organisations who want to go out together and local schools – for after school activities and extra-curricular events.
What are you most proud of?
How quickly I adapted from almost 18 years of working in criminal justice, to an equally worthwhile role. The knowledge that I built up in a short space of time, enabling me to write and deliver some fantastic projects over the years, including a contract with the CCG, a specialist grant with Hackney Council, ScootAbility (the mobility scheme), the Library project in partnership with Hackney libraries and The Reader (funded by the Arts Council) and the G.O.A.L project (part of Ageing Better with Connect Hackney and The Big Lottery).
Why did you join Women in Transport?
To enhance my knowledge and meet other professionals and like-minded people.
What do you enjoy most about being a member of Women in Transport?
To date I have not fully embraced the benefits … but I know in time I will be able to attend more events and engage more in the opportunities as they come up.
Annual membership of Women in Transport is £60 per year providing access to monthly events including unique site visits, professional development and networking opportunities. Find out more and join today.
Follow us @transportwm on Twitter, on Linkedin at Women in Transport and at @transportwmn on Instagram for events, news and updates.