Community bus helping people to feel less lonely

Katy Bourne visited the Wick Estate last Wednesday to talk to people in the area and learn more about the café bus project.

The café bus visits various locations in Littlehampton throughout the week and provides people with a place to meet and have a cup of tea and a conversation.

It also acts as an information point for services such as the local neighbourhood policing team, Age UK and Arun Wellbeing.

Mrs Bourne said: “I was delighted to meet members of the local community who really benefit from this wonderful project.

“The café bus is run by the community for the community.

“It brings local residents together, helping reduce loneliness, increasing interaction and thus improving their quality of life.

“Some of the residents told me about their fear of crime and how being alone can exacerbate this but, by getting out and meeting others on the café bus, it has helped them to put things in perspective.”

Councillor Marian Ayres, who founded the café bus project, said: “It was lovely having the Police and Crime Commissioner on our bus listening to the residents’ comments about their experiences of crime and estate life.

“It is so encouraging to know that the effort we put into the project has a broader appreciation and that it plays its part in the whole issue of strengthening our communities.”

Mrs Bourne added: “I really appreciate the time given by Cllr Ayres and all the other volunteers to keep this much-needed project running.

“I wish them every success for their future plans to expand the project to other areas.”

For more information, contact Cllr Marion Ayres on 07767 398250 or email [email protected]