CPR to a Smiling Face - Local Bus Operator Reveals Top Comments from Customers

To coincide with National Customer Service Week, Stagecoach Yorkshire has begun to tell some of the stories of members of their team who go ‘above and beyond’ in offering exceptional customer service, from drivers who have carried out CPR and to those who always show a friendly manner.

The local bus operator regularly promotes, on its internal social-media channel, examples of commendations from customers, and is now lifting the lid on some examples.

Jack Abbott, Interim Managing Director of Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: “As professionals running a service that connects people, we are very aware that we are at the heart of our communities and that we must always behave in a professional manner.

“But sometimes our colleagues go above and beyond, and it is good to recognise that fact. From helping a blind customer to dealing with a diversion, from showing a friendly way with passengers to giving CPR to a pedestrian who had collapsed, it is good to recognise outstanding customer service.

“After all, bus drivers aim to become a known and respected part of their local communities. For many vulnerable people, the smile and friendly chat they have with their driver might be the most important interaction they have all day. We take that responsibility extremely seriously.”

Driver Jason Pritchard received a commendation after finding a member of the public in need of medical assistance. The commendation read: “Without a second thought, he stopped to help, jumping straight into action by performing CPR while staying on the line with the emergency services operator. He gave the lady the very best chance possible until the paramedics arrived.”

Whereas a passenger said of Ben Ashmore: "The driver on this bus was extremely kind and went out of his way to help a passenger who had stumbled. He noticed the man had his bag on upside down, and told him, but the man didn’t appear to understand, and so the driver got out of his seat to adjust the man’s bag for him. This was an act of kindness and respect. What a lovely man."

Another said of Ian Morris: “I'm registered blind and catch the 25 service often. There's a driver on that service who's particularly helpful - they always let me know which bus it is and check where I want to get off. Please pass on my thanks."

Meanwhile, one said of Elliott Tivey: “He greets people with a big smile, asks how they are and wishes them a great day as they leave the bus. He is always helpful and has a positive attitude.”

National Customer Service Week runs from Monday 5th to Friday 9th October. It is a week-long opportunity to raise awareness of customer service and the vital role it plays in successful business practice and the growth of the UK economy.

To find out more about local bus routes and services, to buy before you board, and to track your local bus, download the Stagecoach Bus App from https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/stagecoachbusapp.