Lifeline for elderly and disabled passengers as £1m funding secures 13 new community minibuses
North Coast Community Transport minibus
Monday 12 October 2026
Community transport services supporting elderly and disabled people across Northern Ireland are to benefit from £1million in government funding to replace ageing minibuses, helping passengers maintain their independence and access essential services.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed the investment on Monday (12 October), with each of Northern Ireland’s 13 community transport providers set to receive funding to purchase a new vehicle.
The announcement comes at the beginning of Community Transport Week 2026, which runs from 12 to 16 October, highlighting the role these services play in connecting people who may otherwise struggle to travel.
Replacing vehicles most in need
The £1million capital allocation will fund 13 new minibuses, replacing almost half of the 27 community transport vehicles identified as the highest priority for replacement.
The vehicles were prioritised according to their age, mileage and condition, with the investment intended to help providers maintain safe and reliable services.
However, 14 vehicles on the priority replacement list will remain outside this funding allocation. No further replacement funding has been confirmed in the announcement.
A vital connection for vulnerable passengers
South Antrim Community Transport minibus
Community transport can be particularly important for older people, disabled passengers and those without access to suitable alternative transport.
These services help people reach goods and services, maintain contact with family and friends, and continue participating in their local communities.
Minister Kimmins said:
“Community transport can often be the only transport option for many and it is vital that providers have a reliable fleet of vehicles to allow these services to be delivered safely and efficiently.
“This £1million funding will allow each of our 13 providers to procure a new vehicle so they can continue to provide vital services for those who need them most.
“Without these services, many elderly and disabled people who rely on them would find it difficult to access goods and services and remain connected to family and friends.”
Supporting independence in local communities
The Minister also emphasised the importance of community transport in helping vulnerable people remain independent.
She added:
“People must be at the heart of everything we do and Community transport services are a valuable life-line for many in our local communities in supporting some of our most vulnerable to maintain their independence.”
The funding will enable all 13 providers to begin replacing vehicles within their ageing fleets, although the Department for Infrastructure has not specified when the new minibuses are expected to enter service.
With 14 priority vehicles still awaiting replacement, the investment represents a significant step towards renewing the fleet, but does not address the full replacement requirement identified across Northern Ireland.
