The origins of Dial-a-Journey lie initially with the Margaret Blackwood Housing Association. In the mid- 1980's they were engaged in building a mixed hostel/housing complex in Bannockburn.

Around the same time they recognised the lack of accessible public transport and entered into discussions with Central Regional Council (CRC) to set up a dial-a-ride scheme. Subsequently they obtained approval to run the scheme under the Manpower Services Commission Community Programme, with funding for the manager provided by CRC and vehicles provided by The Order of Malta. The service commenced late in 1986.

In November 1988 MSC funding ceased. CRC undertook to sustain funding until the end of the financial year in 1989. During this period, negotiations with CRC secured ongoing funding, covering staff and office costs, but with vehicles continuing to be provided by the Order of Malta. The running costs of vehicles were being met through fares from passengers.

At the same time as setting up Order of Malta Dial-a-Journey Ltd as an independent company in 1991, CRC, in reviewing its concessionery fares policy, increased its level of funding with the requirement that the service covered the whole of Central Region as opposed to only the urban south-east corner.

Over time, the service has grown from part-time staff and two vehicles to become the second largest operator of this type of service in Scotland, currently employing 25 staff and operating 19 vehicles.

The company is an equal opportunities employer and was awarded the Department of Employment "Positive about Disabled People" Award in 1995. In 2000, the company was awarded "Investors in People" accreditation. PADP was renewed recently and the company is seeking re-recognition for Investors in People.

1996 Central Regional Council was disbanded, and three new unitary authorities were formed. These are Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils. It is with these Councils that Dial-a-Journey fulfills it's service agreements.