Posted on 13 December 2024
We’ve launched the Hyde Community Bus
We’ve teamed up with Community Transport Sussex and leasing company Rivervale to launch the Hyde Community Bus Project to deliver accessible transport to people living in Midhurst and surrounding areas.
Hyde Charitable Trust awarded a grant to Community Transport Sussex, through its Evolve Fund, so it could lease the electric, wheelchair accessible minibus just in time for Christmas.
The bus will provide accessible, affordable transport for young families and isolated disabled and older people, helping them get to the shops, access support services and take family outings to parks and activities.
The bus was launched with a celebration event with residents at Cobden House (one of our later living schemes) in Midhurst – an area that is poorly serviced by public transport. Guests were joined by Rod Holdsworth, our Chief Financial and Resources Officer, partners working in the area, and colleagues from Community Transport Sussex and Rivervale.
By popular demand, the bus’s maiden voyage was to Haskins Garden Centre, in Angmering. And in the run up to Christmas, there’ll be trips to supermarkets and more garden centres, and even family visits to see Father Christmas.
Rod said:
“We’re not just about building homes. One of our priorities is making sure we’re providing accessible communities that people can be proud of, and helping end social isolation and loneliness.
“This project represents a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and connected community – meaning people can make essential journeys, whether to the doctor’s or shops. We’re delighted to collaborate with Community Transport Sussex, Rivervale and local organisations to empower people to stay engaged, active, and independent."
We’re working with residents, Community Transport Sussex, our partners and local groups to identify people who can benefit from the bus, in particular, what journeys and trips are most important to them.
Driving home for Christmas
One of the first groups to use the bus was parents who don’t have access to affordable supermarkets. Not only were they able to do some Christmas shopping, but there was a special request for a stop off at a certain ‘Golden Arches’ on the way back. The bus is not only helping them save money, but it’s also serving as a way to foster new friendships, social connections and support networks.
As one mum who went on the trip said:
“We had a great time. Having the bus enabled us to get so much more shopping. It was really good going shopping together – we swapped ideas. The driver was lovely and helped us with our shopping to our front door.”
The bus is already making a difference to lives. Here’s what some of the residents at Cobden House said:
“This bus is good for everyone – it means I can get out. I can’t wait to visit a garden centre. I’m looking forward to lots of lovely days out.” Susan
“I’m really looking forward to the trips – getting out and about, and going into Chichester. I’m looking forward to meeting other people.” Paul
“Transport is a real issue here, I’m hoping that this bus will encourage me to get out more.” Janice
“I’ve already been on a trip into Petersfield. I bought myself new trousers and a new shirt. I can’t remember the last time I was able to buy myself some new clothes. I’m already really looking forward to the summer trips.” Doug