Travelling Safely on the Bus network

 

I’m writing to you on behalf of the Bee Network and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

 

Safely and reliably taking young people to and from school is a key function of our transport system. Following a serious incident on board a Bee Network bus last week, we wanted to take the opportunity to write to schools across Greater Manchester to remind young people how to use the bus in a way that keeps them and other passengers safe when travelling.

 

Here are five ways we can all help ensure everyone has a safe and comfortable journey:

 

1. Take care when crossing the road to or from your bus stop. Look both ways before crossing and never cross immediately in front of or behind the bus.
2. If seated on the bus, remain in your seat throughout the journey, even after you’ve pressed the button to stop. If you have to stand, hold on to one of the poles or handles throughout your journey. Never stand on the top deck of a double decker bus.
3. Travelling with friends is fun, but you must not do things that might make other people feel frightened or uncomfortable, e.g. pushing and shoving, shouting, playing loud music, climbing on the bus or using offensive language.
4. Respect Bee Network buses and shelters. Breaking a bus or shelter will only slow down your journey and the police may get involved. Anti-social behaviour on the Bee Network may mean you are excluded from certain parts of the transport network and may have your concessionary travel pass removed.
5. If you have a problem while travelling, speak to the driver or a TravelSafe Support and Enforcement Officer, use TravelSafe LiveChat through the Bee Network app or call us on 0161 244 1000. In an emergency, call 999.

 

We want everyone to have a safe journey and are keen to speak to young people about how they can stay safe on our network. If you’d be interested in hosting an assembly on this topic, our TravelSafe Team would be happy to come and speak to young people at your school. Please contact the team at: travelsafe@tfgm.com

 

In addition, our website hosts a series of videos and other resources which show how young people can use the Bee Network (including bus services) safely. You can access these videos at: Travel training resources for young people | Bee Network | Powered by TfGM.

 

Kind regards,

 

Alison Chew

Interim Director of Bus

Transport for Greater Manchester