FAQs

 
What is Stagecoach Connect?

Stagecoach Connect is a brand-new minibus service for the Aylesham and Whitfield area, providing a demand-responsive transport for everyone in the community; a bus that arrives when you need it, booked through our app or over the phone.

 

How many people will I share the minibus with?

Each bus can hold up to 16 people, with a wheelchair space or buggy space behind the driver at the front of the vehicle. 

 

Who is driving my Stagecoach Connect bus?

Your bus will be driven by one of our drivers at Stagecoach South East who are fully qualified and trained.

 

How do I book a journey?

You can book the service using the Stagecoach Connect app available from Google Play or App Store on your smartphone. You can pay through the app, keep track of upcoming and completed rides you’ve taken and receive notification reminders of upcoming journeys. If smartphones aren’t your thing, you can make a booking over the phone where you can speak to a member of our team. For bookings made through the phone, you will pay the driver with cash when boarding the bus. The booking line is 01227 538631 available from 7am to 7pm on Mondays to Fridays and 9am to 5pm on Saturdays. The line is closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

 

How do I create a Stagecoach Connect account?

You can create an account on the Stagecoach Connect app. All you need to do is download the app! It takes two minutes and requires your name, phone number and email address. The Stagecoach Connect app is not the same as the Stagecoach Bus app - please make sure you select the Stagecoach Connect app.

 

When can I book my bus trip?

You can book up to seven days in advance or just before you travel, however we would recommend booking at least one hour before you require the bus. There are two buses in service each day and journeys are planned on a first come, first served basis so if we can't get a bus to you for the time you've asked, we'll let you know what time we will be able to get to you.

 

Where do I get the bus from?

You may not need to walk to a bus stop to be picked up by the service, you just need to make sure you are within the Stagecoach Connect service area. Our app will detect the nearest pick-up point to you and inform you of where and when you must meet the vehicle. This could be right outside your front door; at an existing bus stop close-by; or just a short walk around the corner. If booking over the phone you will be told where your pick-up point will be. 

 

When does the bus run?

The bus will run Monday to Friday between 7am and 7pm (with a first pick-up time at around 7.25am, and a last pick-up time at around 6.30pm, depending on your location) and on Saturdays between 9am to 5pm (with a first pick-up time at around 9.25am and a last pick-up time at around 4.30pm, depending on your location). There is currently no Sunday or Bank Holiday service.

 

How do I know if the bus is near me?

You will receive a text message with an ETA (estimated time of arrival). When the bus has arrived, we will let you know by sending another text. 

 

Will the bus drop me off at my exact destination?

We will always aim to drop you off at your location or as close as the driver possibly can. 

 

What areas can I travel to?

Our minibus service operates in Aylesham, Evington, Eythorne, Shepherdswell and Whitfield. To see the full-service area, check out our map or download the app.

 

How much does it cost to use Stagecoach Connect?

A single journey on Stagecoach Connect will cost £3.50. Concessionary pass holders can travel for free, but you must always book a place on the service in advance.

 

How will I pay?

If you are using the Stagecoach Connect app you can pay by adding your credit or debit card or with Apple Pay. For bookings made over the phone, you will pay the driver with cash when boarding the bus. 

 

Will the driver wait for me if I’m late?

As a shared service, Stagecoach Connect provides all passengers with an allocated time and location to pick up the bus. Therefore, we cannot wait for you if you arrive late at your pick-up destination.

 

Can I use Stagecoach Connect if I’m in a wheelchair?

Yes, you can use the Stagecoach Connect service. A wheelchair space is available at the front of the vehicle behind the driver. Please specify in your booking (over the phone or on the app) that you require a wheelchair space so we can ensure availability.

 

Can I travel with luggage?

Yes, you can but please be mindful that this is a shared service, therefore space must be prioritised to passengers over personal items. 

 

Can I travel with a pushchair?

Yes, a space is available at the front of the vehicle behind the driver. Wheelchair users have priority over buggies and pushchairs, so you may be asked to fold your buggy or pushchair if a wheelchair user boards the vehicle.

 

Can I book a private journey?

No, we do not currently have this option. As a shared service, we work with technology to provide a quick and efficient service, linking your bus with those close to you to ensure buses run to their due time. 

 

Can I book for multiple people at once?

Yes, you can book for multiple people but you must ensure that you’ve specified the number of people when booking over the phone or app to ensure availability for your group. Use the ‘+’ feature on the app to add more people to your booking. 

 

How many people can I book for?

The minibus has up to 16 seats, but you'll only be able to book as many seats that remain available at the time you make your booking.

 

Can I travel with my pet?

Assistance dogs are allowed to travel on our services.

 

Can I eat or drink on Stagecoach Connect buses?

We politely ask that you don’t consume any food or drink on the buses.