Sisterhood on the Move: Asha women’s transport challenge

What began as a series of community outings became a powerful demonstration of resilience, confidence and solidarity for more than 18 women from the Asha Centre Health Groups.

The women recently took part in a programme designed to build confidence using public transport, reduce social isolation and encourage independent travel. Rather than hiring a private minibus, they chose to navigate local bus services themselves, learning how to plan routes, change buses and cope with unexpected disruptions.

Despite roadworks causing cancellations and diversions, the group successfully visited Wilton Park in Batley, the Bagshaw Museum and Bradford’s new Darley Street Market, before enjoying a celebratory meal at Signature Restaurant.

However, the journey was about much more than reaching their destinations.

During a trip to Bradford on 1 July 2027, members of the group encountered behaviour they found intimidating and discriminatory. At Leeds Bus Station, several women experienced hostile staring and what they described as racial microaggressions from a member of the public. Later, on the X6 bus, another passenger’s behaviour left members of the group feeling uncomfortable.

Further along the journey, a woman boarded the bus on Bradford Road and aggressively demanded that two Asian members of the group—an older woman and another living with an invisible disability, vacate their priority seats. Unlike previous experiences, the women did not allow the incident to undermine their confidence.

Remaining calm and respectful, they explained that there were other available priority seats nearby and stood their ground. The passenger eventually withdrew her demand.

For many of the women, it marked a significant personal milestone. Speaking after the trip, one participant reflected on how far she had come.

“On my last journey, a bus driver used a patronising, racist tone with us. My daughter and I were too scared to even respond. But today, after navigating multiple buses and route challenges together, I realise I have the power to stand up and question rudeness in the future.”

The Asha Centre says the outings are about far more than sightseeing. Many women supported through its health groups face barriers including social isolation, limited confidence using public transport, language barriers and previous negative experiences when travelling alone.

By travelling together, participants are developing practical travel skills while also building confidence, friendships and mutual support. The programme demonstrates that something as ordinary as catching a bus can become life-changing for women who have previously felt unable to travel independently.

An Asha Centre spokesperson said:

“These outings are about empowerment. Every journey helps women gain confidence, develop independence and realise they have every right to access public spaces safely and with dignity. When women support one another, fear gives way to confidence and collective strength.”

For the women involved, the day was about much more than visiting parks, museums or markets. It was about reclaiming confidence, overcoming fear and proving that, together, they are stronger than the barriers they face.

As one member summed up afterwards:

“We didn’t just travel across West Yorkshire, we travelled towards greater confidence, independence and belonging.”

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