Bus drivers across the UK are urging people to consider life behind the wheel, as part of a Government-backed push to bring more recruits into a career they say offers stability, progression and real purpose.
Bus drivers across the country have come together to champion the advantages of life behind the wheel, encouraging both first-time jobseekers and people considering a career change to take a closer look at the profession. They say the sector offers fresh opportunities, clear routes for progression and the pride that comes with keeping communities connected.
From big-city routes in London to rural services in Cumbria, drivers are sharing what keeps them in the job: competitive pay, strong benefits and the satisfaction of helping communities move. Many also point to the variety of the work — no two shifts are the same, and the unexpected perk of seeing some of the country’s best landscapes from the driver’s seat.
The campaign comes as the bus network undergoes significant change. The Bus Services Act is giving local leaders greater control over their services, while strengthening protections for socially necessary routes. It also introduces mandatory training to help drivers deal with anti-social behaviour on board, a move welcomed by many on the frontline.
The recruitment call comes as the Government presses ahead with wider reforms to bus services, following the Bus Services Act and a £3 billion investment package for buses nationwide.
For Leea Carnegie, a 25-year-old driver working for Stagecoach Yorkshire, the job is more than just one with fast development.
She said: “I love being a bus driver as its not only a way to give back to the community, but you get to join a team that are more like family. I started out as an apprentice and in a year and six months have been given the brilliant opportunity of becoming a lead driver.
“I would highly encourage people to join our industry as the support and growth is endless, even if it’s just to make someone smile.”
Meanwhile Jamie Jackson, 24, joined Stagecoach when he was just 18. He said he has received “so many opportunities” in the six years of being a bus driver.
He said: “I also really enjoy driving around many different areas, meeting new people and seeing regular faces who also recognise you too. Being a bus driver at such a young age really makes me feel like I’ve achieved a great profession.
“Within the bus industry there are so many opportunities to progress. I’d highly recommend bus driving to anyone who loves to drive and has great people skills.”
For Sophie Ord, a 24-year-old driver for Go North East who has supported major events like the Great North Run, there has never been a better time to get involved in bus driving.
She said: “I love being a bus driver because every day is different and I get to make a real difference in people’s lives. As a young female driver, I’m proud to be part of an industry that’s evolving and becoming more diverse. I’ve gained fantastic road experience and confidence, and I genuinely enjoy helping passengers get to where they need to be safely.
“I’d highly recommend bus driving to other young people. It’s a career that offers independence, responsibility, and the chance to travel around different places, meet new people, and experience something new every day, far from being stuck in a typical office job.”
Simon Lightwood, Minister for Roads and Buses said:
“These testimonies from our brilliant bus and coach drivers show just how rewarding a career this is. It truly offers something for everyone, from those weighing up what’s next after Summer exams to people looking for a radical change.
“With our £3 billion investment in services for the next three years and our Bus Services Act now law, there has never been a better time to get involved in this wonderful industry, and I hope to see more talented drivers over the coming years.”
Investment is also being directed into modernising fleets and facilities, including the continued roll-out of electric buses. Drivers say the quieter, smoother vehicles can make a noticeable difference over a long shift, with many finding them more comfortable to drive than their diesel counterparts.
The job is open to people at every stage of life — whether it’s a first step into work or a fresh start after years in another industry. With shift patterns that can support work-life balance, travel concessions and long-term prospects, many who start driving buses go on to build careers that last decades.
Government and industry bodies say they are continuing to engage regularly to understand the pressures operators face, while drivers hope their own stories will persuade more people to take the next stop towards a new career.
