Dial A Bus
Home >What is it?
Dial-a-Bus is a pre-booked door to door minibus service for people who have difficulty using conventional public transport. Operating in Preston and the South Ribble area, Dial-a-Bus is a core service of Preston Community Transport. Three vehicles operate this service Monday to Friday with additional services on certain days.
What can I use Dial-a-Bus for?
Dial-a-Bus provides trips for almost any purpose, whether one off or regular, but does not accommodate medical appointments or Social Services day care. Mostly we go to major shopping facilities in the Preston and South Ribble areas on these services.
For a Dial-a-Bus service which includes medical and hospital appointments and clinics in the Chorley and South Ribble area, see "Red Rose Runner".
Who can use it?
Anyone with restricted mobility can use the service; it is for the young and old, for those who have a temporary or permanent disability or older people who have difficulty. Dial-a-Buses are suitable for wheelchair users as all the buses are fitted with passenger lifts. Should you wish to remain in your wheelchair, the buses are specially equipped with wheelchair and passenger restraints. For easy access, all the buses are low floor vehicles but if you feel that the step is too high, then the driver can help you use the passenger lift.
When does the service operate?
The service operates 09:00am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday. Please note this service is not available on Bank Holidays. Bookings for the service must be made in advance by telephoning 01772 204 667.
If you do not wish to use the phone, we are used to handling Type Talk calls, otherwise, please email your enquiry to redrose@prestonct.org This email address is checked regularly and we'll get back to you by email as soon as possible.
You can also write to us at the address in the 'contact us' section in the menu on the left of the screen.
How much does it cost?
Fares are largely similar to ordinary bus fares, and are kept as low as possible. Like public services buses, NoW cards can also be used on this service, providing they are valid for travel in Lancashire.
What do I need to do now?
To use the Dial-a-Bus service you need to become a member. The first time you contact us we will take your details and register as a member. All details that we take when becoming a member are kept confidential. The more flexible you are with your booking request, the more likely we are able to help you.
"Without Dial-a-Bus I would feel very isolated. I would not be able to maintain my independence and would have to rely on someone else to do my to do my shopping"
"It is something to look forward to each week. You get to know the other passengers and have a good chat. The drivers are always helpful and carry my bags to the door for me. It’s such a friendly bus…"