CHARITY leaders have expressed concerns over Hampshire County Council's proposed budget cuts to community transport services in Basingstoke.

The charity, Community First, warns that these cuts could have severe consequences for vulnerable individuals in the community.

The proposed budget cuts would result in the withdrawal of all funding for community transport services in Basingstoke, including the Connect Dial-a-ride service, which is operated by Community First.

According to the charity, this could lead to increased isolation among residents, with some individuals potentially unable to leave their homes.

READ MORE: Hampshire County Council 'heading for bankruptcy', meeting hears

In response to these proposed cuts, Community First has launched the Save our Community Transport Service campaign.

The campaign aims to mobilise customers to contact their county councillors and MPs, highlighting the potentially devastating impact of these cuts on the community.

Community First is known for operating in seven of Hampshire's 11 districts, providing essential transportation services to approximately 85,000 passengers annually through its 'Connect' services, including Dial A Ride and Call & Go.

These services cater to rural and isolated communities where public transport options are limited.

While Hampshire County Council conducted an online public consultation in July to gather feedback on the proposed cuts, Community First asserts that awareness of the consultation and its implications was limited among the public.

The charity emphasises the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the potential consequences of these cuts.

SEE ALSO: Westside Community Centre closes after dangerous concrete found

Tim Houghton, chief executive of Community First, pointed out that travel habits have shifted due to the pandemic.

However, he stressed the importance of social connectivity and its role in mental and physical wellbeing.

He said: “Our customers cannot afford to travel independently, and in many cases, other options are simply unavailable, particularly for those with physical disabilities. There is a shortage of accessible vehicles in Hampshire and we're a lifeline to 4,200 groups who hire buses for regular social trips and outings.”

Currently, Hampshire County Council invests £800,000 in community transport services, but if the proposals are adopted, this funding would be entirely cut from 2025.

Community First is calling on the Government to invest in long-term community transport lifelines and recognise the challenges that councils face in balancing budgets amid increasing demand in social care and children's services.

To support the Save our Service campaign, Community First encourages people to write letters to their county councillors or MPs or share personal stories about how these proposed cuts may impact them or their loved ones by contacting them at support@cfirst.org.uk.