In our community, it has come to light that individuals with criminal histories, including known stalkers and other perpetrators, are able to drive public buses. These buses transport vulnerable children and adults every day, putting them at unnecessary risk. It is terrifying to think that someone with a harmful past could be responsible for getting our loved ones safely from point A to point B.

Criminal background checks, specifically the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, are a crucial safeguard. They help prevent those with histories of abuse, harassment, or other offenses from assuming positions of trust and authority over vulnerable groups. Currently, there is no mandated requirement for all public bus drivers to undergo such checks, allowing those with potentially dangerous backgrounds to slip through the cracks.

The safety of our community should never be compromised. We owe it to our children, our elderly, and every individual who relies on public transportation to ensure their journey is secure. By requiring all public bus drivers to have a DBS check, we can help protect our community from potential threats and build a safer transportation system for everyone.

Legislators and transport authorities have a responsibility to prioritize our safety over bureaucratic or financial impediments. Implementing mandatory DBS checks for all public bus drivers is not just a preventative measure, it's a necessary step in safeguarding the wellbeing of our society.

Please join us in urging local councils and the national government to take immediate action on this issue. Sign this petition and help us strive for a future where public bus transportation is a safe space for everyone.