Swindon’s Bus Company has announced major plans to recruit more women drivers, including an £8 million investment by parent company Go-Ahead.

The news on International Women's Day comes after the company admitted that it faces a huge gender imbalance in an industry that has traditionally always been male-dominated.

The campaign is a joint effort between The Go-Ahead Group and all its bus companies, and Swindon’s Bus Company say they hope that this monetary investment will help achieve 50 per cent gender equality by 2035.

"Gender equality isn't just a goal – it's a commitment to building a better future for all,” said Matt Carney, Bus CEO for Go-Ahead.

“By setting an ambitious target to achieve 50 per cent gender parity by 2035 and investing £8 million to support women drivers in their work environment, we are taking decisive steps to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace."

According to recent data from Women in Bus and Coach, women currently make up just 10 per cent of the workforce in the bus industry, and 11.5 per cent of bus driver roles are occupied by women.

The new ‘Go-Ahead Women’ initiative will see new recruits receive eight weeks of fully paid training estimated to cost around £7.5 million in total, which aims to increase confidence and nurture talent.

The other £500,000 being invested will be spent on creating more inclusive environments by upgrading bus depot facilities and helping women to feel supported and access the same opportunities as their male colleagues.

"We firmly believe that diversity drives innovation and success,” said Carolyn Ferguson, chief people officer for the Go-Ahead Group.

“We’re investing in training and development opportunities for women drivers, and by doing this we’re not only enriching our workforce but also paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future."

 “In the past, our industry has been largely dominated by men, but that is fast changing, as we look to recruit the very best talent regardless of gender,” added Andrew Wickham, Swindon’s Bus Company managing director.

“Those wishing to join our team can choose from a wide range of roles - from driver to marketing or engineering - and each offers its own mix of challenges and rewards.”

Anyone interested in becoming a bus driver can find more opportunities by visiting the Go Ahead vacancies website.