In August 2021, I made a significant life change by moving from Grangemouth to Polmont. The primary reason was the stress and inconvenience caused by the lack of a direct bus service from my home to my workplace at Forth Valley Royal Hospital. Every day, I have to switch buses in Falkirk to reach the hospital, a journey made all the more arduous by limited public transport options.

For those of us who work in healthcare, time and reliability are of the essence. The 38/X38 bus used to offer a convenient and direct route to Forth Valley Royal Hospital before the COVID-19 pandemic, but current routes no longer service this direct need. Four years on, we're still left with the same inadequate transport situation that requires multiple changes and increased travel time.

I've had to rely heavily on my parents for rides as they drive, but this isn't a sustainable solution for me or many others. It's not just about my personal inconvenience; there are countless others who rely on public transport to reach the hospital, whether it's staff, patients, or visitors. Many people prefer or need to use public transport for a myriad of reasons, including environmental concerns and economic constraints.

In light of these ongoing struggles, I urge Falkirk Council and McGill’s Midland Bluebird to consider reinstating the direct bus service from Polmont to Forth Valley Royal Hospital. A direct service would not only alleviate personal burdens but also enhance accessibility for the Polmont community and beyond.

Restoring this service would enable many citizens, including hospital staff and patients, to travel with ease, security, and less frustration, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: providing and receiving critical healthcare services. With sufficient support and action, we can achieve a solution that benefits all.

Please sign and share this petition. Let us send a clear message that access to essential public services must meet the needs of the community.