The report is now available to view at www.bit.ly/BHC-TransportPovertyReport

Belfast Healthy Cities has today launched a new report on transport poverty in Northern Ireland, revealing how limited access to affordable, safe and reliable transport is deepening health inequalities and social exclusion. The report, ‘Transport Poverty in Northern Ireland: A Health Equity Perspective‘, was unveiled at Queen’s University Belfast’s Riddel Hall, with Minister of Health Mike Nesbitt and Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins in attendance.

The study, commissioned by Belfast Healthy Cities, draws on stakeholder interviews, community feedback and data analysis to highlight the many ways in which transport poverty is impacting everyday life. From rural isolation and car dependency, to the financial pressures of unreliable urban transport  alongside an infrastructure that does not always enable active travel options, the report paints a stark picture of a system that fails to meet the needs of many. It also outlines how transport inequality intersects with gender, disability and geography, exacerbating the barriers faced by those already at risk of poor health outcomes.

Speaking at the launch, Charlene Brooks, Chief Executive Officer of Belfast Healthy Cities, said:

“Transport is a lifeline and an essential part of our lives. If you can’t make the journey to your GP or Health appointment, your work, your school or even connect with your community, your health and wellbeing suffer. This report shines a light on the often-invisible reality of transport poverty and offers a practical model for change by examining what has worked in other areas. Our goal is to work in partnership with communities and government to embed equity and health into how we plan and deliver transport services in Northern Ireland.”

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt welcomed the report’s findings and emphasised the need for a joined-up approach. He said:

“Tackling health inequalities requires a broader lens – one that includes how people get to the services and places that support their wellbeing. I fully support the call for Health Impact Assessments to be integrated into transport planning, and I commend Belfast Healthy Cities for leading this vital work.”

Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins also commended the report. She said:

“My Department recognises the importance of equitable, sustainable transport connections in creating healthier, more resilient communities. While my department already heavily invests in Active Travel networks and public transport both via Translink and Community Transport, more can always be done to improve connectivity.  Transport poverty is an issue and I am committed to working with partners across sectors to seek to ensure our transport system meets the needs of everyone in the north of Ireland, especially the most vulnerable.”

The report proposes a model for addressing transport poverty through an integrated public health planning, improved data monitoring, investment in community-based solutions, and increased accessibility to active and public transport. It recommends the creation of a Strategic Transport Poverty Forum led by Belfast Healthy Cities, to coordinate cross-sector responses and ensure long-term progress.

Stakeholders from across Northern Ireland attended the launch event, including community leaders, planners, academics and health professionals. The keynote speaker from Public Health Scotland preceded the discussion which reflected widespread agreement that accessible transport is a key social determinant of health and that coordinated, evidence-led action is now essential.

The report is now available to view at www.bit.ly/BHC-TransportPovertyReport