Les Amis, a Jersey charity that supports adults with learning disabilities, has stopped using its two wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The vehicles had reached the end of their useful life, and replacements were due to take six months. Taxi firm Ryde is providing discounted rates and a simple booking system for care workers. Les Amis is the founding charity partner of Ryde Care. Jersey taxi service helps charity overcome wheelchair transport shortage
The vehicles
Shaun Findlay, managing director of Les Amis, said the charity had an urgent need for suitable vehicles, and that the delay in supplying replacements left it short of options. The vehicles Les Amis needs differ from many that are available. There has to be enough space around the vehicle for residents and service users, and for the additional complications they have. Ryde was extremely helpful in finding a solution that works.
Ryde Care
Charlie Petulla, co-founder and director of Ryde, said he has seen how difficult it can be for people with additional mobility needs to find reliable transport in Jersey, and that the company is determined to improve it. Ryde has made a significant investment in two brand-new, fully electric wheelchair-accessible vehicles, with ongoing specialist training for its drivers. The partnership is the start of closer work with Jersey charities and community organisations, and of looking at ways to make accessible transport more affordable and sustainable for the people who depend on it.