Miserable bus drivers and complaints.

[Geordie driver]

Following the thread about fines for stopping at the wrong stops, I thought I would start my own about why so many bus drivers seem to be grumpy chaps!

I am aware they don't have the best reputation and some of them are their own worst enemy, but most of them just want a quiet shift and to go home without being abused, mate of mine had 2 death threats last Saturday and didn't even report it as no one will care.

The hassle of dealing with the great British public just grinds you down, conditions and wages are terrible now, no way could I go back to it, no wonder they struggle to recruit and retain decent drivers.

I know of no other job where it is seen as reasonable to go 5 and a half hours without access to a toilet.
Glad I got out of it.
Many passengers have a very unrealistic view of what will happen should they complain, I lost count of the number of times it was going to " cost me my job" for simple things like not having enough change or sitting with the engine running. Basically, if you don't crash the bus, don't assault a passenger and don't get caught fiddling you will be fine.
Meandering pointless rant over.

 

[matt_world2004]

Bus drivers are grossly under renumerated for the challenge involved with their job

 

[PaulMc7]

I think it's part of the problem with anything that deals with customers. I get a lot of really happy drivers but there are the odd few here and there that seem very angry constantly and not approachable. I think it's all down to quite a few things tbh:

How easy their route is to cope with in terms of volume of passengers
Traffic levels
Customers treating them respectfully
Length of shift

It's harder and takes far more concentration to be a bus driver than most of the public realise

 

[TheGrandWazoo]

Following the thread about fines for stopping at the wrong stops, I thought I would start my own about why so many bus drivers seem to be grumpy chaps!

I am aware they don't have the best reputation and some of them are their own worst enemy, but most of them just want a quiet shift and to go home without being abused, mate of mine had 2 death threats last Saturday and didn't even report it as no one will care.

The hassle of dealing with the great British public just grinds you down, conditions and wages are terrible now, no way could I go back to it, no wonder they struggle to recruit and retain decent drivers.

I know of no other job where it is seen as reasonable to go 5 and a half hours without access to a toilet.
Glad I got out of it.
Many passengers have a very unrealistic view of what will happen should they complain, I lost count of the number of times it was going to " cost me my job" for simple things like not having enough change or sitting with the engine running. Basically, if you don't crash the bus, don't assault a passenger and don't get caught fiddling you will be fine.
Meandering pointless rant over.

As the son of a driver, I grew up seeing the variety of different people who were all simply drivers. Some are grumpy, some engaging and friendly. So basically, just another representative group of people.

However, a group that are expected to be technically proficient AND customer facing. Some are bad (on either count) and you question why they should be doing it but the vast majority are conscientious. It's difficult when you have passengers getting on, complaining how late the bus is and being totally unaware of the circumstances.

 

[dgl]

Totally agree with the first post, yes being really grumpy doesn't look good so long as you are professional that that should be all that matters.
Although having someone like Gus the bus does brighten your day a bit.

 

[Geordie driver]

I would rather have a grumpy driver who can drive well and deal with the punters efficiently than a customer friendly one who can't. Some drivers clip the kerb more times in one run that I would in a year.

 

[CN04NRJ]

I generally speak to anyone who speaks to me first, 99% of the time if someone doesn't speak or acknowledge me they don't want to be spoken to for whatever reason. Of course, this is just my experience.

Only three or four (out of 50ish) of the routes I do are very intense and busy and I find I'm much less inclined to want to speak to anyone on those routes as they can be very stressful. Saying that, I'll never ignore or be rude to anybody no matter how stressed out I am as I try to be professional at all times.

In two months I'll be moving to Scotland which will be a whole new experience after 10 years driving buses in Cardiff!

 

[cnjb8]

My old school bus drivers were right mardy but I totally admire what they go through. Nottingham kids have a reputation!

 

[xc170]

Arriva where I am seen to only employ drivers with a chip on their shoulder...

 

[paul1609]

I generally speak to anyone who speaks to me first, 99% of the time if someone doesn't speak or acknowledge me they don't want to be spoken to for whatever reason. Of course, this is just my experience.

Only three or four (out of 50ish) of the routes I do are very intense and busy and I find I'm much less inclined to want to speak to anyone on those routes as they can be very stressful. Saying that, I'll never ignore or be rude to anybody no matter how stressed out I am as I try to be professional at all times.

In two months I'll be moving to Scotland which will be a whole new experience after 10 years driving buses in Cardiff!

I did a lot of exploring of the Orkney Islands by bus at the end of my Lands End to John O Groats walk in July, much to my surprise nearly all the Kirkwall Bus Drivers are Stagecoach Drivers who have transferred in from English depots. Most of the buses seemed to be secondhand from the mainland as well they nearly all had Plusbus accepted here stickers!

 

[TUC]

I recognise the abuse bus drivers get, but I do think part of the problem is that too often in applying for the job they (and too often also the people recruiting them) think that the job is just about driving buses when actually it's very much a customer-facing jobs that needs people skills.

Like I said, I recognise the abuse issues, the limited toilet breaks etc. The problem is, much the same, and different kinds of pressure, could be said about those who work in call centres, and they're still expected to be calm and polite.

 

[philthetube]

Do people with good customer facing skills and the abilities required to do the job well want the job for what it pays or do the companies have to make do with what they can get?

If you are conscientious and like to do your job properly it is very stressful as a lot of the time you are trying to do an impossible job.

 

[notadriver]

Bus driving is probably the least desirable pcv driving job with tour coaches on the opposite end of the scale. But I’m betting the bus drivers who get to drive out into the countryside on longer routes are much happier than city ones who do the same route repetitively.

Whilst I agree the job is harder than it looks in terms of concentration the fact still remains it is relatively easy and cheap to recruit and replace bus drivers.

 

[Antman]

Following the thread about fines for stopping at the wrong stops, I thought I would start my own about why so many bus drivers seem to be grumpy chaps!

I am aware they don't have the best reputation and some of them are their own worst enemy, but most of them just want a quiet shift and to go home without being abused, mate of mine had 2 death threats last Saturday and didn't even report it as no one will care.

The hassle of dealing with the great British public just grinds you down, conditions and wages are terrible now, no way could I go back to it, no wonder they struggle to recruit and retain decent drivers.

I know of no other job where it is seen as reasonable to go 5 and a half hours without access to a toilet.
Glad I got out of it.
Many passengers have a very unrealistic view of what will happen should they complain, I lost count of the number of times it was going to " cost me my job" for simple things like not having enough change or sitting with the engine running. Basically, if you don't crash the bus, don't assault a passenger and don't get caught fiddling you will be fine.
Meandering pointless rant over.

I don't think any bus drivers are expected to go five and a half hours without using the toilet, some routes have quite generous stand time between trips. That said there are plenty of drawbacks not least of all the shift work and unsocial hours along with the other stresses.

 

[Geordie driver]

I recognise the abuse bus drivers get, but I do think part of the problem is that too often in applying for the job they (and too often also the people recruiting them) think that the job is just about driving buses when actually it's very much a customer-facing jobs that needs people skills.

Like I said, I recognise the abuse issues, the limited toilet breaks etc. The problem is, much the same, and different kinds of pressure, could be said about those who work in call centres, and they're still expected to be calm and polite.

They apply for the job as they need to make a living. At one time driver earned about 50% more than say a shop worker, now the money is more or less the same for what is a much more difficult job, hence they struggle to retain drivers. I am aware call centres monitor staff toilet breaks, but I have never heard of them refusing to let someone use the toilet for 5 and a half hours. When did you last hear of a call centre worked being assaulted at work? Mate of mine ended up with brain damage after a hammer attack, company had refused to fit protection screens, when did that last happen in a call centre?

I don't think any bus drivers are expected to go five and a half hours without using the toilet, some routes have quite generous stand time between trips. That said there are plenty of drawbacks not least of all the shift work and unsocial hours along with the other stresses.

I know for a fact they do, some circular routes for example where the only way to access a toilet is to go off route. I have seen drivers booked for going off route to use a toilet. Next time you see a driver get on the bus with an empty 2 litre plastic milk bottle, try and work out what that bottle is for? Even in bus stations, if you need the toilet but are running late you will be booked.

 

[TheGrandWazoo]

Bus driving is probably the least desirable pcv driving job with tour coaches on the opposite end of the scale. But I’m betting the bus drivers who get to drive out into the countryside on longer routes are much happier than city ones who do the same route repetitively.

Whilst I agree the job is harder than it looks in terms of concentration the fact still remains it is relatively easy and cheap to recruit and replace bus drivers.

Comparing a bus driving job in the city with a tour coach operation is like comparing a Dachshund with a Bulldog.... they're both the same thing (!) but massively different too. I asked the question of a bus driving friend of mine (very fit bloke, works for First) if he was frustrated driving in Bristol's gluepot traffic. His view.... very sanguine and that's not uncommon with city drivers. Getting paid....why worry!

Also, we're seeing that it is no longer cheap and easy to obtain bus drivers in many parts of the country. Many firms are in perpetual shortage. It isn't like 1986!

 

[Antman]

They apply for the job as they need to make a living. At one time driver earned about 50% more than say a shop worker, now the money is more or less the same for what is a much more difficult job, hence they struggle to retain drivers. When did you last hear of a call centre worked being assaulted at work? Mate of mine ended up with brain damage after a hammer attack, company had refused to fit protection screens, when did that last happen in a call centre?

I know for a fact they do, some circular routes for example where the only way to access a toilet is to go off route. I have seen drivers booked for going off route to use a toilet. Next time you see a driver get on the bus with an empty 2 life plastic milk bottle, try and work out what that bottle is for? Even in but stations, if you need the toilet but are running late you will be booked.

Then be booked, I'm sure passengers would rather their bus be a few minutes late than the driver be bursting for the loo.

 

[Geordie driver]

Then be booked, I'm sure passengers would rather their bus be a few minutes late than the driver be bursting for the loo.

And it is added to your disciplinary record, disciplined for having a wee, no wonder the job is wrecked. The reality is some drivers would happily go off route, I would, and if they booked me I would fight my corner, but many newer or less able drivers don't, it's a flipping disgrace to treat staff like that.

Not very hygienic using a plastic milk bottle then handling cash either. Some of the passengers would be ok but I can assure you some of them won't.
We had shifts where you got in he cab at 06 00 and got out at 11 30, busy routes where you never got a second sitting still.

 

[Shimbleshanks]

And it is added to your disciplinary record, disciplined for having a wee, no wonder the job is wrecked. The reality is some drivers would happily go off route, I would, and if they booked me I would fight my corner, but many newer or less able drivers don't, it's a flipping disgrace to treat staff like that.

Perhaps you should get together with these people:
On World Toilet Day, 19 November 2019, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is launching a Transport Workers’ Sanitation Charter, because toilet rights are human rights.
The charter provides guidance on what action should be taken by employers and governments to ensure access to toilets for transport workers, and includes a checklist for workers and their unions to assess current toilet provision.
World Toilet Day is an opportunity to take action to tackle the global sanitation crisis and help achieve UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which promises sanitation for all by 2030. It is estimated that over 673 million people worldwide are forced to practice open defecation.
Access to toilets is particularly challenging for transport workers who are on the move. Across the world there are stories of awful sanitation conditions putting transport workers lives at risk. This is a particular issue for women transport workers, but improved toilet provision is a benefit for all.
Some of the charter’s demands are:
access to secure and clean toilets for women and men, which are well lit inside and outside

• ventilated, lockable cubicles
• appropriate hygiene (washing) facilities with clean water
• affordable and appropriate menstrual hygiene products provided
• paid rest breaks for transport workers who should be able to access toilets when they need them during working hours - without delay, and with no loss of income.

Diana Holland, chair of the ITF women transport workers’ committee, said: “Every trade unionist can use this charter to bargain with the employer. Every single employer can look at this charter and measure what they’re doing, and we can all use it to influence legislators and introduce laws that protect everybody throughout the world. This is a chance to make a real difference to something that matters to transport workers everywhere.”

 

[Geordie driver]

Comparing a bus driving job in the city with a tour coach operation is like comparing a Dachshund with a Bulldog.... they're both the same thing (!) but massively different too. I asked the question of a bus driving friend of mine (very fit bloke, works for First) if he was frustrated driving in Bristol's gluepot traffic. His view.... very sanguine and that's not uncommon with city drivers. Getting paid....why worry!

Also, we're seeing that it is no longer cheap and easy to obtain bus drivers in many parts of the country. Many firms are in perpetual shortage. It isn't like 1986!

Regarding the traffic, this I the only way to view it, as long as I made a reasonable stab at keeping to time any late running was the companies problem, not mine.

Perhaps you should get together with these people:
On World Toilet Day, 19 November 2019, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is launching a Transport Workers’ Sanitation Charter, because toilet rights are human rights.
The charter provides guidance on what action should be taken by employers and governments to ensure access to toilets for transport workers, and includes a checklist for workers and their unions to assess current toilet provision.
World Toilet Day is an opportunity to take action to tackle the global sanitation crisis and help achieve UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which promises sanitation for all by 2030. It is estimated that over 673 million people worldwide are forced to practice open defecation.
Access to toilets is particularly challenging for transport workers who are on the move. Across the world there are stories of awful sanitation conditions putting transport workers lives at risk. This is a particular issue for women transport workers, but improved toilet provision is a benefit for all.
Some of the charter’s demands are:
access to secure and clean toilets for women and men, which are well lit inside and outside

• ventilated, lockable cubicles
• appropriate hygiene (washing) facilities with clean water
• affordable and appropriate menstrual hygiene products provided
• paid rest breaks for transport workers who should be able to access toilets when they need them during working hours - without delay, and with no loss of income.

Diana Holland, chair of the ITF women transport workers’ committee, said: “Every trade unionist can use this charter to bargain with the employer. Every single employer can look at this charter and measure what they’re doing, and we can all use it to influence legislators and introduce laws that protect everybody throughout the world. This is a chance to make a real difference to something that matters to transport workers everywhere.”

Retired now so should I wish to defecate in the open I am free to do so.

 

[alansheppard77]

Following the thread about fines for stopping at the wrong stops, I thought I would start my own about why so many bus drivers seem to be grumpy chaps!

I am aware they don't have the best reputation and some of them are their own worst enemy, but most of them just want a quiet shift and to go home without being abused, mate of mine had 2 death threats last Saturday and didn't even report it as no one will care.

The hassle of dealing with the great British public just grinds you down, conditions and wages are terrible now, no way could I go back to it, no wonder they struggle to recruit and retain decent drivers.

I know of no other job where it is seen as reasonable to go 5 and a half hours without access to a toilet.
Glad I got out of it.
Many passengers have a very unrealistic view of what will happen should they complain, I lost count of the number of times it was going to " cost me my job" for simple things like not having enough change or sitting with the engine running. Basically, if you don't crash the bus, don't assault a passenger and don't get caught fiddling you will be fine.
Meandering pointless rant over.

the worst drivers are on National Express and the best on Transdev also Trent Barton

 

[arbeia]

After a spell of sickness, I was sent to head office occupational therapist. I was given the company line, and finally asked if there was anything else "bothering" me. I said there was. I was sick, as being an older driver, of being expected to go 5 and a half hours without access to a toilet. SHE, said I should be able to, and it wasn't the companies responsibility to provide toilet facilities! She hadn't a clue that a lot of older male drivers have Prostate problems which can cause increased urinary function. All I got out of her was get back on the sick till you are sorted out. Eventually after prostate cancer operation/treatment, being a diabetic, I was put on Insulin, so after 34 years was dismissed. The companies are always short of drivers, but don't have a clue how to treat staff decently. Thats what a lot of drivers are up against. I say thank god for crisp packets and pot noodle containers!

 

[anthony263]

I gave up working for first cymru as I had enough of the punters and lack of support by management.

Now work for a smaller operator where I'm getting more psy for less hours and great boss who isnt afraid to get out and do a hard days work behind the wheel.

Added bonus ateast I don't have to drive streetlites anymore

 

[Segedunum]

At home up in Newcastle the drivers are usually quite chirpy and seem to have much improved since I was a wee kid.

Meanwhile in South Yorkshire some seem to vary between passive and deliberately rude. The former is fine as they're there to drive first and foremost, but a purposeful attitude at people is not at all appropriate.

Thankfully these days I commute by tram.

 

[Geordie driver]

The companies are always short of drivers, but don't have a clue how to treat staff decently. Thats what a lot of drivers are up against. I say thank god for crisp packets and pot noodle containers!

Crisp packets and pot noodle containers, 3rd world conditions, but apparently not true according to some. As if we would make this stuff up.

Thinking about this, they don't treat their office staff or fitters like this, why is it acceptable to treat drivers like this?

 

[Mwanesh]

I recognise the abuse bus drivers get, but I do think part of the problem is that too often in applying for the job they (and too often also the people recruiting them) think that the job is just about driving buses when actually it's very much a customer-facing jobs that needs people skills.

Like I said, I recognise the abuse issues, the limited toilet breaks etc. The problem is, much the same, and different kinds of pressure, could be said about those who work in call centres, and they're still expected to be calm and polite.

you are comparing wrong scenarios. Show me anyone who has ever been arrested and sent to prison for abusing a call centre employee. Bus drivers come to work not get abuse.

 

[Antman]

Crisp packets and pot noodle containers, 3rd world conditions, but apparently not true according to some. As if we would make this stuff up.

Thinking about this, they don't treat their office staff or fitters like this, why is it acceptable to treat drivers like this?

In an office there will obviously be toilets but the situation for bus drivers is never going to be perfect.

 

[Geordie driver]

In an office there will obviously be toilets but the situation for bus drivers is never going to be perfect.

I was referencing the way they treat drivers in general, the toilet issue is only a small part of it.

 

[Antman]

I was referencing the way they treat drivers in general, the toilet issue is only a small part of it.

I think it does vary between operators.

 

[Busaholic]

All I can say on the toilet situation, or should I say lack of toilet situation, is that this is what happens when a combination of deregulation and anti-union legislation/sentiment, together with other factors, especially opo, changes the job, if not beyond recognition then certainly markedly. Even so, bus drivers in London are still able to access toilet facilities on virtually every route, as TfL will, if necessary, arrange for the provision of a portaloo at a suburban terminus if nothing else is available, recently at New Addington for instance. Meal reliefs were also subject to union agreement in London Transport days, with almost every garage, and many bus stations, having a canteen. In other cases, 'approved' cafes which welcomed bus staff and kept their prices reasonable were built into bus schedules e.g. at Bromley, where various routes operated by Bromley Garage terminated at Bromley North Station. The approved cafe, in East Street, closed on Saturday at 2 p.m. until Monday morning, so schedules had to incorporate a trip to the garage, at Bromley Common, and back at these times. A schedule that allowed one minute less for the break than allowed by the management/union would be rejected, hence why strict clockface timetables were sometimes impossible to achieve!