DVSA Accredited Vehicle Operator
Earned recognition is a new way for vehicle operators to prove they meet driver and vehicle standards. Participants regularly share performance information with the DVSA and in return, their vehicles are less likely to be stopped for inspections.
Earned Recognition is accredited to operators who record and submit data which satisfies key performance indicators relevant to vehicle maintenance, drivers’ hours and recognises operators that show high standards of compliance.
The DVSA admit that roadside checks cost operators time and money and use up their own resources. So that’s why they want to make sure that compliant businesses aren’t stopped unnecessarily. By using the Earned Recognition concept, it means that the DVSA can then redirect their resources to the operators who pose the biggest risk to road safety.
The Guild of British Coach Operators
We are proud to be a part of the prestigious Guild of British Coach Operators – the only accredited member in the North East of England! The Guild represents the UK’s top coach travel, hire and bus companies. Guild members are required to meet a rigorous 44-point checklist, to subscribe to the Guild’s Charter, and fully complying with rules for the safe operation of buses and coaches; all Guild Member companies are fully licensed by the Government’s Department for Transport – Vehicle & Operator Services Agency. Visit the Guild’s own site for more in depth information.
QUALITY STANDARDS TO GUARANTEE YOUR SATSIFACTION
Coach companies are required to achieve a 100% pass on the quality standards checklist before being accepted into membership, and are audited every two years to ensure continuing compliance. We have to show:
- An honest and explicit description of coaches
- An efficient booking and sales process
- Written confirmation of bookings and hire terms
- Effective maintenance procedures that exceed industry standards
- Clean and well-presented coach drivers who are professionally trained and tested
- Operations conducted in an environmentally sensitive manner
ALL GUILD MEMBERS OFFER THE FOLLOWING GUARANTEE TO THEIR CUSTOMERS:
- Punctual pick up
- A fully functional coach
- 24 hour emergency back-up
- Courtesy and a prompt reply to enquiries
- Concise terms of hiring in writing
- Written confirmation of bookings
- Uniformed drivers
- A recognised complaints procedure
CPT Member
Stanley Travel is a proud member of the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), the UK’s leading trade association for the bus and coach industry. CPT membership demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and customer service. It ensures we stay up to date with evolving legislation, best practices, and industry support to deliver a reliable and compliant transport service for every journey.
UK Coach Operators Association
As members of the UK Coach Operators Association (UKCOA), Stanley Travel aligns with an organisation dedicated to promoting excellence across the coach industry. UKCOA membership signifies our dedication to quality, compliance, and continual improvement in all aspects of our operation. It gives us access to expert guidance, training, and industry collaboration—helping ensure every passenger benefits from a safe, comfortable, and high-quality travel experience.
RHA Coaches
Stanley Travel holds accreditation with the RHA specifically under their Coaches membership programme, which supports coach-operators through compliance services, policy representation and best-practice guidance. RHA The RHA has over 80 years’ experience driving change in the road-transport sector and its coaches arm gives us direct access to specialist audits, service-tools and regulatory updates. By being accredited we underline our commitment to maintaining high operational standards and show our clients that we run a safe, compliant, forward-thinking travel business.

