In 2026, Modeshift proudly marks its 25th anniversary, celebrating a journey that has transformed how people travel across the UK. 

Modeshift Celebrates 25 Years of Transforming Everyday Journeys 

Since its beginnings in 2001, Modeshift has grown from a small regional forum into the UK’s leading organisation for sustainable and active travel, supporting schools, businesses, healthcare, and communities to improve everyday journeys. 

From local forum to national movement 

Modeshift’s story began with a shared ambition -bringing local authorities together to improve School Travel Planning. What started as a regional collaboration quickly evolved into a national network, laying the foundations for a movement that continues to drive behaviour change today. 

Over the past 25 years, Modeshift has: 

• Developed the Modeshift STARS accreditation scheme, now a national standard for Travel Plans  

• Expanded across sectors including education, business, residential, healthcare and leisure  

• Supported thousands of organisations to reduce car use, cut carbon emissions and promote active travel  

• Delivered national programmes like the Active Travel Ambassador (ATA) programme, empowering young people to lead change  

Today, more than 9,000 STARS accreditations have been achieved, supported by a passionate and growing #TeamModeshift network. 

A collective #TeamModeshift effort 

This milestone is not just about Modeshift – it’s about the people behind it. 

From our Members, Honorary Members and Supporters, who have played a key role in shaping the organisation’s direction, to the many award winners recognised over the years—your innovation, commitment, and leadership have driven progress across the sector. 

Together, you have helped create healthier, wealthier, more inviting communities – where people are given the opportunity to walk, wheel, ride, and use public transport for their everyday journeys. 

Leadership reflections 

Nick Butler, Chief Operating Officer, Modeshift, said:
‘Reaching 25 years is a significant milestone for Modeshift and a testament to the strength of our network. Our Members and Supporters have been at the heart of everything we’ve achieved – driving forward real change in how people travel every day. We’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made together and excited for what comes next.’ 

Ross Butcher, Chair of Modeshift, added:
‘Modeshift’s journey over the past 25 years reflects the power of collaboration and shared purpose. From its early beginnings to becoming a national leader in sustainable travel, the organisation continues to evolve and respond to the needs of its Members and communities. This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate that progress and look ahead with ambition.’ 

Celebrating at the Houses of Parliament 

To mark this milestone, this week Modeshift hosted a special, exclusive 25th anniversary celebration at the Houses of Parliament. 

Bringing together Members, partners and key stakeholders. At the event we celebrated achievements across the network, recognising contributions from across the years, and looking ahead to the future of sustainable travel in the UK. 

Looking ahead 

As Modeshift enters its next chapter, the mission remains clear: 

To support, inspire and champion organisations to improve everyday journeys. 

With continued growth across the STARS schemes, expansion of national programmes, and a strong, collaborative network, Modeshift is well placed to build on 25 years of success. 

Here’s to the next 25 years of making everyday journeys better. 

Stay connected: Follow #TeamModeshift for updates and more on our 25th anniversary celebrations.