In response to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Go East Anglia has taken a proactive step towards addressing the unique needs of the 'COVID generation.' Recognising the disruptions younger individuals face, the company has introduced a pioneering initiative called Generation Go.
The essence of Generation Go lies in empowering 14 to 19-year-olds with crucial life skills that may have been missed during extended lockdown periods. Acknowledging the significance of travel and transport, the program provides essential information to build their confidence in travelling independently by bus travel.
The comprehensive workshops cover a spectrum of topics, ranging from understanding bus routes and reading schedules to utilising journey planners, apps, and websites, as well as handling unexpected situations.
This groundbreaking initiative has been made possible through The Go-Ahead Group's Community Chest Initiative Fund, an embodiment of the company's commitment to community welfare and education. By financing local projects in their operating areas each year, the company demonstrates their dedication to supporting initiatives that uplift and educate the communities they serve.
Colleagues from Go East Anglia are taking Generation Go to the heart of communities across the region, organising interactive workshops in local schools, pop-up events, and colleges. The initiative is not just about imparting transportation education; it's a holistic investment in the long-term well-being and self-sufficiency of the 'COVID generation.' The program aims to equip young individuals with practical skills that extend beyond the immediate need for bus travel, fostering a sense of independence and confidence in navigating the challenges of the post-pandemic world.
As the initiative gains momentum, Go East Anglia plans to expand the project's reach to other groups, including recruitment agencies. This strategic move aligns with broader restart programs that encourage individuals to re-enter the workforce after periods of disruption caused by the pandemic and facilitate their integration into various aspects of adult life.
By investing in the empowerment of young individuals through practical life skills and transport knowledge, Go East Anglia is contributing to the resilience and self-sufficiency of the next generation. As the initiative expands its reach, it stands as a testament to the bus industry's capacity to drive positive change beyond the confines of transportation.
Roxana Hurjui, Bus Centre of Excellence