The Children’s Trust receives accessible minibus funded by volunteer’s legacy gift
The Children’s Trust has received a new accessible minibus thanks to a generous gift from long‑standing volunteer Jim Bush, helping children with brain injury travel safely to hospital appointments and enjoy days out with their families.
Jim volunteered at The Children’s Trust for over 20 years, where he built lasting friendships and found renewed purpose in life. He stepped down only when his health made it impossible for him to continue travelling to The Children’s Trust national specialist centre in Surrey. Following his death, Jim left a gift in his Will to fund a new vehicle for the charity.
The new vehicle, a Classic Accessible Sprinter, is fully wheelchair accessible and able to transport a stretcher. Built on a Mercedes-Benz chassis, it includes features designed to provide safe and comfortable travel for children and staff, including air conditioning, saloon speakers, privacy glazing and a bespoke curtain. The nine-seat minibus also features an underfloor wheelchair lift to ensure boarding is safe, quick and comfortable.
Jim’s son, David, reflected on his father’s dedication to volunteering and supporting the charity: “Dad was always motivated by service to others, throughout his life. When he retired, he jumped at the opportunity to volunteer at The Children’s Trust - not only was he touched by the plight of the families and was prepared to help in any way he could, but he also was very grateful to The Children’s Trust because he developed friendships, worked in a team, and it gave him a new purpose in life.
“So, whilst you and I might feel he gave a lot to the cause, he would actually see it the other way around.”
The minibus will enable The Children’s Trust to transport children and their families to hospital appointments as well as support community outings that enhance wellbeing and quality of life—opportunities that are not always easily accessible.
Michelle Martin, Director of Fundraising and Communications, said: “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, who constructed and delivered the minibus, also supported the project by funding a branded wrap for the vehicle, including a dedication recognising Jim Bush’s contribution.
David added: “I think Dad felt that contributing toward a new vehicle would be a useful legacy to leave, and although he really was an incredibly humble and selfless man, he would be thrilled to be remembered in a small way.”
