Strathclyde Partnership for Transport has approved more than £1.34 million in grant funding to support community transport operators across the west of Scotland, with three Inverclyde organisations set to share nearly £85,000.

The funding, confirmed at SPT's Operations Committee, will support 19 community transport organisations delivering essential journeys to healthcare appointments, shops and social activities. For many passengers, these services provide a lifeline where no mainstream transport alternative exists.

Port Glasgow Voluntary Transport Group will receive up to £22,740 to support core operations and MyBus demand-responsive services. Inverclyde Voluntary Council of Social Services will receive up to £25,000 towards core operating costs, while Ardgowan Hospice will receive up to £31,800 in core funding, supporting transport for some of the most vulnerable patients and families in the area.

SPT chair of operations and Inverclyde councillor, David Wilson said:

"Inverclyde has dedicated community transport operators working hard every day to make sure that older people, disabled people and those facing the most difficult of circumstances can still get where they need to go. The work Ardgowan Hospice, Port Glasgow Voluntary Transport Group and Inverclyde VCSS do is quietly remarkable, and this funding is a recognition of just how essential that work is."

Councillor Wilson along with Councillor Graeme Brooks recently visited the hospice to see how SPT funding is used and helps with transport services for those who rely on them to access care.

CEO of Ardgowan Hospice Graham Gardiner said:

'As one of the founding services of Ardgowan Hospice 45 years ago, our transport service continues to be a vital support for the families of Inverclyde and beyond. Without our partnership with SPT, we would struggle to meet demand and keep our transport running to the standard we currently have. Thank you again to all at SPT for the work you do to support our community.'

This view of the importance of Ardgowan to the local community was also reiterated by users of the service who said:

"It is priceless what you have done for me these past five months. So much more than a lift to the hospital. I have been taken care of like being wrapped in a warm blanket, and the company chat and friendly banter of all the drivers lifted my spirits and made my day even on the tough ones, I even had a laugh."

"To the wonderful Team at Ardgowan Transport - I will never be able to show you the gratitude I feel for all your support. You are all totally amazing. Thank you."

"I would like to thank you all for the service you provide. All of you made a difficult time in my life so much easier. The way you all made conversation with me helped make my journeys so much easier. I wish you all the very best for the future."