APPG for Women in Bus and Coach hosts Westminster reception highlighting the future of the sector 

10th Dec 2025

Industry leaders gather to help shape joint efforts to strengthen the bus, coach, and community transport sector

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Last week (1 December), the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Women in Bus and Coach hosted its latest Parliamentary Reception in Westminster.  

Sue Percy CBE attended and represented the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) and the Bus Centre of Excellence (BCoE) at the event.  

The event brought together Parliamentarians, industry leaders, and representatives from Women in Bus & Coach (WiBC) for a focused discussion on the future of the bus, coach, and community transport sector. 

Speakers explored key themes including sector resilience, gender leadership, the future of coaches, the vital role of community transport, and the ongoing work required to build a more inclusive and representative workforce. 

The event featured contributions from a wide range of influential speakers, including: 

  • Lord Peter Snape of Wednesbury and Shaun Bailey MP (Chair of Women in bus and coach) - Joint-Chairs of the APPG 

  • Minister for Roads and Buses - Simon Lightwood MP 
  • Alex Mayer MP (Transport Committee) 

  • Minister for Rail - Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill 

  • Executive Director of Transport for West Midlands (WMCA) Anne Shaw OBE 

  • Louise Cheeseman OBE FCILT CIRO, Chair, Women in Bus & Coach 

  • Laura Hadzik, JMW Solicitors LLP / WiBC 

  • Caroline Whitney, Community Transport Association 

  • Nalisha Fernandes CGMA, MBA, Metroline Ltd / WiBC Mentee Director 

During the reception, Victoria Garcia MBE was also recognised as a WiBC Ambassador, receiving congratulations from attendees in acknowledgement of her contributions to supporting and championing women across the sector. 

Many attendees noted that the insights shared during the reception will help shape joint efforts to strengthen the bus, coach, and community transport sector, ensuring it remains resilient, inclusive, and future-ready. 

CIHT and BCoE looks forward to continuing to engage with the APPG and Women in Bus and Coach, as the industry continues to build a more inclusive and representative workforce. 

Alex Mayer MP at the APPG for Women in Bus and Coach event

Alex Mayer MP at the APPG for Women in Bus and Coach event

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