A major milestone has been reached in the campaign to save the Daisy Bus service, with the newly formed Community Interest Company (CIC) confirming plans to purchase a dedicated minibus thanks to over £12,000 in community donations.
The volunteer-run service was launched following the sudden withdrawal of the original Daisy Bus on 20th August, providing vital transport for Isle of Wight patients between the Red Jet Terminal and Southampton General Hospital.
At a board meeting held this week, CIC directors approved the purchase of a dedicated minibus. Fundraising will now shift focus towards covering the cost of the vehicle and its ongoing running expenses.
Red Funnel has pledged significant support for the initiative, including free ferry travel for volunteer drivers, free parking for the vehicle in Southampton, and help promoting the timetable so patients can plan their journeys with confidence. Discussions are also underway to secure free parking in Cowes for volunteers.
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, has said:
“When Operations Director Neil Chapman and I heard about the Daisy Ring Bus campaign, we discussed it with our brilliant customer service colleagues and there was an immediate desire to help.
“This service means so much to the community, and we’re proud to play a part in supporting something so vital for Islanders during such challenging times.”
The CIC is now appealing for more volunteer drivers who can commit to helping 0 day a week. No special driving licence is required, and full support will be provided. Those interested are encouraged to email [email protected].
CIC Chairman Michele Newton added:
“This is a huge moment for the campaign. The initial response to the campaign has been amazing, and we’ve gone from crisis response to building a sustainable future – and we’re doing it together. We can do this.”
Donations can be made via www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/savethedaisybus.
Great news, but to be honest the service should be
funded by the NHS, it is not island residents fault
that the hospital on the island does not provide all
the medical services persons require on the island
therefore requiring NHS services on the mainland.
Someone needs to check the statement that “no special driving licence is needed. Usually, a minbus requires a D1 class on your licence which does not come automatically when you pass your car test but requires an additional test. People who passed their test before 1 January 1997 will usually have a D1 entitlement under what are usually referred to as “grandfather rights” but if your licence has been revoked (due to a medical episode, for example) then re-issued, the D1 entitlement is often then withheld. It is important that people know which clases of vehicle theyare licensed to drive to avoid both driving other than in accordance with their licence and possibly insurance difficulties.