Go-Ahead Group sets target for 50% gender equality by 2035

Credit: The Go-Ahead Group

On International Women’s Day 2024 (8 March 2024), the Go-Ahead Group announced the launch of an exciting new initiative to attract and recruit 1,500 new women drivers across its bus operations.

With the ‘Go-Ahead Women’ initiative, the company is embarking on a mission to achieve 50% gender equality by 2035, marking a significant step in the traditionally male dominated transport sector.

Recognising the need for greater representation, Go-Ahead is also investing £8 million in upgrading bus depot facilities, which includes work to create inclusive working environments where women colleagues have opportunities, feel supported and empowered to thrive.

According to recent data from Women in Bus and Coach, women make up 10% of the workforce in the bus industry. At present, 11.5% of bus driver roles are occupied by women within Go-Ahead’s bus companies, and the group is outlining its commitment on International Women’s Day to bridge this gender gap and to achieve true gender diversity by 2035.

In addition to the recruitment drive, new hires will benefit from a comprehensive eight-week fully paid training programme, designed to equip them with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their roles. This initiative underscores Go-Ahead’s commitment to lead the industry in nurturing talent and providing equal opportunities for career advancement.

In Go-Ahead’s UK rail division, the number of women train drivers joining Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has steadily increased year-on-year, with 2023 seeing the highest split yet at 40%. Go-Ahead and GTR continue to focus on attracting more women in rail to ensure that its workforce represents the communities that it serves.  

Matt Carney, Chief Executive – Go-Ahead Bus, said: “Gender equality isn’t just a goal – it’s a commitment to building a better future for all. By setting an ambitious target to achieve 50% gender parity by 2035 and investing £8 million to support women drivers in their work environment, we are taking decisive steps to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.”

Carolyn Ferguson, Chief People Officer for the Go-Ahead Group, said: “We firmly believe that diversity drives innovation and success. We’re investing in training and development opportunities for women drivers, and by doing this we’re not only enriching our workforce, but also paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future.”