Tim Loughton MP is giving his backing to a major new travel initiative which is set drive forward opportunities for young people nationwide, including those in West Sussex. The National Express Youth Promise, which has been shaped by members of The Youth Parliament to the benefit of their peers, promotes accessible travel for young people. It sets the wheels in motion for increased employment and work experience opportunities alongside a continued commitment to provide good value accessible travel. Launched in The London Transport Museum, The National Express Youth Promise is a five-year commitment to support young people via a series of initiatives, including an apprenticeship scheme, and charity partnerships. Tie-ups include links with The Scouts, The Princes Trust and children’s disability charity Whizz-Kidz of which Tim has close links.
The coach operator has engaged with The British Youth Council and young people from the Youth Parliament, including those who previously advised on the government’s Youth Select Committee report on transport, ensuring young people had the opportunity to shape the policy from the outset.
The Promise is built around five core pledges made by National Express:
- An ongoing commitment to deliver value travel
- Working on a grassroots level with young people in the communities across the UK
- Supporting young people into work and education
- Delivering the most accessible public transport network possible
- Providing platforms on which to showcase youth talent.
As part of it’s commitment each of the coach operator’s 1,700 staff are also given the opportunity to volunteer for young person’s causes, a commitment representing thousands of hours invested across the business.