What started as a single suggestion has quickly become a ground breaking project for young people across Guernsey.
Just five months after the initial proposal of purchasing a bus to reach areas underserved by traditional youth centres, the Youth Commission of Guernsey & Alderney has announced the official launch of The Bus Stop – a fully equipped, solar-powered mobile youth club.
With the generous sponsorship from Skipton International, The Bus Stop is designed to bring vital youth services directly to the community, offering free entertainment, activities and on-board support from trained Youth Support Workers.
“Building a multi-purpose youth centre wasn’t financially viable, but we knew we needed to find a creative alternative,” said Mish Turberville. “The Bus Stop allows us to be mobile, flexible, and reach young people where they are.”
As a charity that relies heavily on grants and fundraising for delivering crucial services, standing out and accessing resources can be a constant challenge. The
Youth Commission credits the success of The Bus Stop to the incredible generosity of local supporters, individuals and businesses mentioned below:
- DLM Architects completed the design of the bus and met young people to ensure their thoughts and ideas were included.
- Little Green Energy Company fitted the solar panels and carried out all electrical work, ensuring the bus is fully energy-efficient.
- Infinity Construction have completed the internal works on the bus.
- JL Innovation fitted the external frame work, and took out internal elements.
- JT Community Giving has provided free Wi-Fi for the year, as well as DJ equipment to help create a lively atmosphere onboard as well as encourage young people to learn a new skill.
- Resolution IT is installing the tech setup and supplying a VR headset for immersive experiences.
- Fort Group have sponsored Liberation Day themed activities.
- Network Insurance have covered the insurance for the following year
- Potting Shed designed the exterior look
- Graham Scott provided and made bespoke cushions
Donations to help fund games and other onboard activities have also come from:
- Norman Piette
- TT club
- GFF
- Dowding Signs
- Sarnia Electrics
- Duquemin and Ozanne
- Valpys
- Aztec
- Julius Baer
The official launch of The Bus Stop will take place on Liberation Day, 9 May, at the Guernsey bus terminus from 12:00pm to 6:00pm. The public are invited to come along and take part in Liberation-themed activities provided by Fort Group. Camilla’s Café will be on site, selling smoothies and cakes for young people to decorate in collaboration with the Youth Commission.
Photo Credits: Langlois Photography
