A FOUNDING member of under threat “lifeline” bus service Dial-a-Ride has launched a campaign on Facebook to try and save it.
Jo Reinlo, 44, who suffers from cerebral palsy and helped set up the district’s Dial-a-Ride more than 21 years ago, started the appeal after hearing of Wyre Forest District Council’s plans to cut its funding for the door-to-door service by half.
The Shuttle revealed that the slashing of both a £10,000 annual grant and the £17,000 a year reimbursement paid for members using bus passes under the concessionary travel scheme could lead to Dial-a-Ride collapsing.
Mrs Reinlo said: “A vital lifeline bus service for elderly and disabled people is under threat in Wyre Forest.
“This would be a major blow to the disabled and elderly, as a lot of people rely on the service to get around.
“As an ex-committee member I find this appalling and I am appealing on the behalf of Dial-a-Ride to keep this vital service running.”
She added: “Sign up on Facebook to save Wyre Forest Dial-a-Ride bus service for the disabled.”
Mark Lawley, chairman of Disability Action Wyre Forest, posted a wall note on the site, saying: “The council are spending an extra £35,000 on street cleaning. They think more of rubbish than disabled people.”
Member, Helen Hall, posted another wall note on the site, adding: “In 1969, some men went to the moon. In 2009, disabled people struggle to get to the shops. Can you see what is wrong with this picture?”
The site currently has 36 members and Mrs Reinlo is confident many more will join the appeal.
To see more details and sign up visit:
http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=1513635629&k=33L5P4Q3U23MZ1G1RCW6W
The Shuttle, 9th April 2009
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