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A community minibus that serves as a lifeline for older and vulnerable residents in and around Dereham, Norfolk, is back on the road after a £5,000 donation helped cover a complete engine replacement.
The vehicle, operated by the charity Dereham Meeting Point, suffered a major engine failure in late 2024, forcing the suspension of its daily transport service. The minibus is used to collect people from outlying villages and bring them to the centre, where they can access hot meals, social activities, and companionship.
The £5,000 funding came from Make Your Mark, a charity that harnesses the mental health benefits of motorcycling to build peer support networks, raise funds, and spread goodwill. Additional contributions from Dereham Day Charity and The Alan Boswell Charitable Trust covered the remainder of the repair costs, which totalled just over £7,000.
“Without this generosity, we would have had to stop the service entirely,” said Shonette Mooney, manager of Dereham Meeting Point. “Our minibus is far more than a vehicle — for many of our members, it is their only connection to friendship, support, and the outside world. Some would simply not be able to attend the centre without it.”
The minibus had been running for over a decade and had become increasingly unreliable before the engine gave out. A replacement engine was sourced from a specialist supplier, and the work was carried out by a local garage in Dereham within two weeks.
Mooney also credited Caren of Caren’s Cabin, a local community café, for connecting the charity with Make Your Mark. “Caren believed in what we do and took the time to point us in the right direction. Without her, we would never have known about the funding opportunity,” she said.
Make Your Mark was founded in 2015 by a group of motorcyclists who wanted to combine their passion for riding with mental health advocacy. The charity now runs group rides, fundraising events, and a grant scheme for small community projects. The Dereham minibus grant is one of several awarded in 2024 and 2025.
The restored minibus resumed its regular route in early March 2025. The service now operates four days a week, covering over 20 stops across the Breckland area. The centre reports that demand for transport has increased since the pandemic, with more elderly residents seeking social contact and support.
Broader context: Community transport services across the UK have faced funding cuts and rising costs in recent years. According to the Community Transport Association, nearly 30% of local community transport operators reported financial difficulties in 2024. The Dereham minibus case highlights how small-scale donations and local partnerships can fill gaps left by government funding.
The Alan Boswell Charitable Trust — part of the Norfolk-based insurance firm — has a history of supporting transport and mobility projects. In the past year, it has also funded wheelchair-accessible vehicles for two other regional charities.
Dereham Meeting Point is now exploring additional funding to expand the minibus service to include evening runs, as many members have expressed interest in attending social events beyond the current schedule.
“We are overwhelmed by the kindness shown to us,” Mooney added. “This is not just a repair — it’s a renewal of hope for everyone who relies on that minibus.”
The centre continues to welcome new members and volunteers. Anyone interested in supporting the service can contact Dereham Meeting Point directly or donate via its website.
