The NWPTUF was formed in October 2003, and was renamed TravelWatch NorthWest in 2006. It is an independent organisation representing all users of public transport in the North West . Membership is open to any not for profit organisation representing the interests of users or potential users of public transport. TravelWatch holds regular conferences open to the public at various locations in the North West . Issues of concern to public transport users are debated and users have the opportunity to contribute and raise their own concerns.

TravelWatch NW's chief purpose is to influence, by research and campaigning, public transport policy in the NW always with the passengers' interests foremost.

We work closely with the North West Regional Assembly, Local Authorities and Transport Operators to help maintain a high profile for public transport in the quest for investment and improvements for passengers.

In 2007 TravelWatch NorthWest became registered as a Community Interest company. [The registered name is "North West Public Transport Users' Forum Community Interest Company", but we trade under the name "TravelWatch NorthWest". The Company Number is: 6181713, and the registered office is at 2 Park House Drive , Heversham, Milnthorpe LA7 7EG, but any communications should be addressed to the Company Secretary in Manchester ]. Any persons wishing to become a member of the company should apply to the secretary.

TravelWatch acknowledges the generous support given by the NorthWest Regional Development Agency, TransPennine Express and Merseytravel.