The Children’s Trust of Tadworth has welcomed a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with an accessible minibus conversion, supplied by EVM UK.
It is custom-built for the charity, which provides a residential rehabilitation centre for children with brain injuries. Usage will be the provision of essential transport at the Trust’s national specialist centre in Surrey.
Many extra specification elements have been incorporated alongside standard aspects such as air-conditioning and privacy glazing. The minibus also has a curtain halfway along the saloon and comes with nine seats on tracking with an underfloor passenger lift.
Funding for the vehicle was from a legacy gift by long-term volunteer driver Jim Bush. The charity has over 200 volunteers, of whom 12 are drivers. They make up to 120 trips per month for appointments, returning service users to their homes, and days out.
Speaking about the arrival, Director of Fundraising and Communications Michelle Martin says: “We are incredibly grateful for Jim Bush’s generous gift in his will, as well as the support of EVM, which has enabled us to introduce this new vehicle.
“Its accessibility will make a vital difference, allowing us to transport children to and from hospital appointments safely and comfortably. It also gives families the chance to enjoy outings together and spend valuable time in the community – opportunities that may not have been possible before. The positive impact of this vehicle will be felt by many families for years to come.”
EVM UK and Ireland Chief Operating Officer Peter Flynn (pictured, second from left) handed over the accessible minibus to representatives of The Children’s Trust.
