A registered charity that supports and provides additional benefits to public transport workers has been welcomed by management and drivers at Bluestar. A nine month membership promotion by the Transport Benevolent Fund’s South West Organiser Michael Gibson has already seen 25% of drivers and other staff members at the Eastleigh based bus operator join the benefit scheme that offers help to working and retired members who face financial and health problems.

The charity now has over 20,000 members and high profile patrons within the transport industry including Keith Ludeman, Group Chief Executive of the Go-Ahead group, Bluestar’s parent company and Stagecoach founder Brian Souter.

Michael Gibson said that he was grateful to Bluestar’s management for their enthusiastic approach and allowing the option of membership to be presented to employees and the offer of long term support.

“Whilst anyone who works in public transport can join us by making direct contact it is imperative for the TBF to work closely with bus operators and create in company representatives for the charity,” said Michael Gibson. “Like many companies, Bluestar is permitting the £1 a week membership to be collected as a payroll donation.”

Operations Manager Alex Hornby said: “We feel that it is important to give our hardworking team the option to join the charity with our support and blessing.”

For more information on the TBF can visit www.tbf.org.uk or call 08450 100 500