ECT provides safe, accessible and affordable transport to local communities, particularly for people who are socially isolated and have mobility difficulties. On the day of the carnival, ECT worked alongside Ealing Centre for Independent Living (ECIL) to provide transport for people who might otherwise struggle to get to this event.
ECIL’s Chairman Wendy Starkie explained: “There have been so many cuts, people with mobility difficulties are struggling to get out because of a lack available transport options. They cannot afford to take taxis, so many are getting out once a week, which can leave people feeling isolated. We know people who have wanted to go to the carnival but have been unable to , so ECT really helped out.”
Two of ECT’s iconic green buses joined the parade, alongside many of ECT’s staff and their family members.
Hanwell Carnival was established in 1898 to raise funds for the Cottage Hospital (now Ealing Hospital). The parade starts at Hanwell Community Centre and travels along Hanwell’s streets towards Elthorne Park, which hosts a huge variety of entertainment and activities including a music stage, fairground, dog show and many stalls run by local charities and organisations. ECT had a stall set up throughout the day to raise awareness of our services to local residents.
Anna Whitty, ECT’s Chief Executive said “Hanwell Carnival is special, not only because of its historic significance, but because many of ECT’s staff (including myself) live in the local neighbourhood. We were delighted to support this great event and are grateful to our staff volunteers who ensured that people with mobility issues had the opportunity to enjoy this great day out!”
We had a fabulous day reminding the community about the essential work we do. Our buses in the parade and our stall in the park gave us a great opportunity to increase awareness of our services. We all know someone – whether it’s a family member, friend or neighbour – who is isolated due to lack of transport. ECT’s community-based door-to-door transport provides a life-line to these people, helping them get out and about and remain active, connected members of their neighbourhoods.”
She continued: “Our recent report “Why Community Transport Matters” outlines how community transport services help keep disabled, isolated or lonely people independent and mobile. As a result, these people tend to stay healthier and happier for longer.”
Watch our video about Why Community Transport Matters here.
