A charity supporting adults with learning disabilities has partnered with a local taxi service after having to sell both its wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Les Amis was left “short of options” after one vehicle was no longer fit for purpose and the other became too small for the wheelchairs its service users require.
Jersey taxi booking service Ryde is now offering the charity discounted rates and a simplified booking system for care workers.
The arrangement is Ryde’s first charity partnership and follows its investment in two new, fully electric wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Les Amis managing director Shaun Findlay said suitable alternatives had been limited.
“When using them, you need to have sufficient space around the vehicle so that it is accessible for our residents and service users along with the additional complications they have. Ryde were extremely helpful and understanding in finding a solution that works for us”, he said.
Ryde co-founder and director Charlie Petulla said the investment in vehicles was supported by “ongoing specialist training” for drivers.
“I’ve seen first-hand how difficult it can be for people with additional mobility needs to find reliable transport in Jersey, and that’s something we’re determined to help improve,” he explained.
“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Les Amis as Ryde Care’s founding charity partner. For us, this is just the beginning of working more closely with Jersey’s charities and community organisations to improve accessible transport, whilst exploring ways to make these services more affordable and sustainable for the people who depend on them.”
