About BUSK

Pioneering Safety in Passenger Transport Since 1993

Our Story: A Campaign for Change

BUSK was founded in February 1993 by Pat Harris, a director and founder who saw a critical gap in transport safety.

The mission began with a single, clear goal: to change UK law and ensure every child had a three-point seat belt on minibuses and coaches. At the time, issues like the legalised overcrowding of school buses—known as the '3 for 2' rule—were common practice, compromising the safety of children and the concentration of drivers.

Driven by thousands of letters from concerned parents and even children, BUSK quickly grew from a local initiative in Usk, Wales, into a national voice for road safety, linking with similar groups worldwide.

Our Journey So Far

Three Decades of Dedication

From a focused campaign to a national standard-setter, our commitment to safety has never wavered.

Each milestone in our history represents a significant step forward in protecting passengers. We've challenged industry giants, advised Parliament, Learner Travel Measures at the Welsh Assembly Government and advised at Stormont, Northern Ireland. BUSK has successfully campaigned for landmark legislation. We continue to adapt and evolve, addressing new challenges while holding firm to our core mission.

1993 - The Beginning

BUSK is founded by Pat Harris to launch a high-profile national campaign for seat belts on all transport built to accommodate safety belts safely.

1997 - A Landmark Victory

BUSK was instrumental in safety belts becoming compulsory in coaches and minibuses.

2013 - Benchmark is Born

BUSK launches Benchmark, the UK’s first and only independent star rating for the coach industry based on safety and compliance.

Today - A Trusted Standard

BUSK Benchmark is recognised in national guidance as the gold standard for passenger transport safety in the UK.

A Legacy of Action: The Blue Peter Campaign

In 1994, BUSK partnered with the iconic BBC programme Blue Peter to launch a poster competition themed, 'Why are there no seat belts on my school bus?'.

The campaign captured the nation's attention, receiving an astonishing 33,000 entries from children aged 5 to 15. 11 year old Ben Sherwin from Cumbria was the overall winner with his powerful slogan 'Can't You See That It's a Sin… Make Them Strap Your Children In!' and was displayed at all Welcome Break service stations and on RAC sandwich boards around the country.

Join Us in Our Mission for Safer Travel

Whether you are a school, a parent, or an operator, you can play a part in raising safety standards across the UK.

Find a Benchmark Member Get in Touch