By Isle of Wight Observer
Following Friday’s deeply concerning news that the Southampton Daisy Bus is due to stop operating, there may yet be light at the end of the tunnel – if the Island’s community is willing to come together and support it.
The Daisy Bus has long been a lifeline for Island cancer patients, offering free transport from the Southampton ferry terminal to University Hospital Southampton (UHS). For many, it has meant the difference between manageable treatment and difficult journeys leading to overwhelming stress. But due to funding cuts from the Channel Islands, the service is set to end on August 20 – leaving vulnerable patients facing long, costly journeys at a time when they need support the most.
IW West MP Richard Quigley has confirmed he is working closely with the IW Observer, local stakeholders and health partners to secure the future of the service.
“I’ve already been in active talks with several parties and have heard some genuinely innovative ideas about the long-term future of the Southampton Daisy Bus,” said Mr Quigley. “I’m working on a long-term plan, but right now, the priority is simple: we must raise funds to ensure the service continues beyond August 20.
“This bus isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for Islanders undergoing cancer treatment in Southampton. If you’re an individual, business, or organisation who wants to help, please get in touch. Every conversation counts, and every contribution could make the difference.”
The IW Observer is backing the campaign and calling on readers to help keep the wheels on the Daisy Bus turning. Editor Carole Dennett said: “Over the weekend we have been talking to Mr Quigley about how to keep this essential service running and the IW Observer stands ready to help in any way we can. Initially we will be coordinating offers of help or support – so contact us on 01983 221050 option:1 or email daisybusappeal@iwobserver.co.uk if you’d like to be involved in this campaign.”
The Daisy Bus has supported patients from both Jersey and the Isle of Wight, including those staying in mainland hotels during treatment. Without it, Islanders face either a 40-minute to one-hour bus journey – or a £15 taxi each way – from the ferry terminal to the hospital.
While the Portsmouth Daisy Bus, which connects patients to Queen Alexandra Hospital, will continue operating. Wessex Cancer Support has confirmed it will not be fundraising to keep the Southampton route going, as it relies on voluntary donations for its core activities. The decision to cease the service was made jointly with its NHS partners.
Mr Quigley added: “As soon as I heard the news I promised to do everything I can to find the best answer for Islanders – and that is what I am doing. We need practical solutions – and we need to find them fast.”
Discussions are ongoing, but the IW Observer will provide further information as soon as possible about how Islanders can support and get involved with the campaign.
The message is clear: if the Island pulls together, the Daisy Bus wheels could keep turning. And for Islanders facing the hardest journeys of all, that would mean so much.
