New Transport Bus for Vista

Thanks to a very generous donation from the The Edith Murphy Foundation and a contribution from the Rotary club of Rutland, Vista, the local charity for people with sight loss in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland have been able to purchase a new wheelchair accessible minibus to replace their 14 year old bus.

The minibus service enables local people with sight loss who may lack the mobility or confidence to use public transport to get out and take part in Vistas services.  Vista’s activities programme is a key service which aims to develop the emotional and physical well being of people with sight loss, reduce social isolation, build confidence and self esteem and independence.  The minibus will support almost 100 visually impaired older people per week, and make approximately 300 trips each year enabling individuals to escape the house and enjoy some social interaction. 

One of Vista’s Service Users said, “I have been coming to the social group for 6 years. I’m 90 years old and live on my own, I don’t have any family. The bus is the only way I get to see my friends, without it I wouldn’t be able to go places.” 

A spokesperson for Vista said, “This is a most welcome addition as our buses are starting to show their age.  I would like to convey our thanks to the funders and assure them that it will be put to good use in providing safe travel for our service users.”

The purchase of a minibus will address the continuing transport issues that act as barriers to community life, because without Vista’s transport, people with sight loss will simply not be able to leave their own homes, leaving them isolated and lonely.

For more information about Vista’s services for visually impaired people please call 0116 249 8839 or visit www.vistablind.org.uk

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