The Fund is proud to announce that we now have a Citroen Dispatch available for use by patients at the National Spinal Injuries Centre at Stoke Mandeville. The vehicle, converted by Gowrings, was delivered in August, and formally launched in November. This is an experiment for the Fund, as up until now our vehicles have always been located at Stanmore, where we have our office and our fleet of six popular vehicles. A need for a vehicle at Stoke Mandeville was flagged up by Jackie Bailey of the Spinal Injuries Association, as the one they had was no longer viable, and following extensive negotiations the Fund agreed to provide the vehicle which is fast becoming popular with patients.
Taking the Barbara Bus vehicles abroad
We do not object to our vehicles going abroad for day trips or longer holidays, but please give us a week’s notice to make sure that the appropriate paperwork is available for the driver.
Taking Care of the Barbara Bus vehicles
With the vehicles being so busy, we very much rely on you, our drivers and passengers, to leave the vehicles clean and tidy; sadly this does not always happen and we get reports of vehicles left untidy and dirty with litter in – it only takes a couple of minutes to remove tissues and sweet wrappers. Also remember always to fill up the tank with diesel before returning to base. These things are common courtesy to the next user, and reports of failure to meet these requirements could result in us not letting offenders use the vehicles in future. As a charity it is important for you to support us in what we are doing.
Volunteer Drivers
We would like to take this opportunity to say how grateful we are for all the time and energy that the volunteer drivers put into their jobs for the Fund. Many of our passengers do not have anyone who can drive them, and our volunteers willingly undertake all sorts of trips – from a couple of miles to the shops or to an appointment to a whole day out by the sea or visiting friends. We always need more drivers, so if you know of anyone who can help us and has a few hours to spare, please ask them to get in touch –
Dartford Crossing
As the vehicles are registered as Disabled Passenger vehicles they are exempt from the toll at the Dartford Crossing. When approaching the booth you must tell them that it is used for a disabled passenger, and that it is zero rated. They will want to check the Blue Badge registration and tax disc before waiving the charge.
Call us on 020 8416 0733 Monday - Friday. The office is normally open 10.00 - 3.30, but please leave us a message if we are not there. In an emergency you may call the mobile number which is on the answering machine. You can also e mail us - office@barbarabus.com or look on our website www.barbarabus.com.