Plunkett is working with the Community Transport Association to examine the potential for the rural community transport sector to use enterprise-based approaches and, where this is appropriate, to support them to do so.

With funding from the Department for Transport, Plunkett and CTA have conducted the first comprehensive research study of the sector and compiled an evidence-base of the extent to which it already uses social enterprise approaches. The results show that almost all rural CT operators trade to some extent, but there is significant potential for them to increase their long-term sustainability by optimising multiple income streams.

The outcomes of the research, a typology of the sector and case example of enterprising rural CTOs have been published and can be downloaded from this page.

Plunkett and the CTA intend to take forward the findings of the research with a joint programme to stimulate and support the use of these approaches.

For further information, contact Elodie Malhomme elodie.malhomme@plunkett.co.uk Tel. 01993 810 730