Pam Bartlett

Pam Bartlett has been nominated for the Bailiwick Community Hero award

FORTY years ago Pam Bartlett brought the Jumbulance to Guernsey. Ever since, she has been the driving force behind this provider of accessible travel on the island.

The Jumbulance gives the chance for disabled people, known as VIPs, to travel with the appropriate care.

There are spaces for 10 VIPs, accompanied by a carer, two nurses, a doctor and a priest – all volunteers. 

Onboard, it is like an adapted coach, kitted out to look after its occupants, with eight beds, a kitchenette, toilet facilities and resuscitation gear. 

The Jumbulance then goes off on its adventures every year all over Europe. In 2012, they saw the London Paralympics. 

Every other year, the Jumbulance heads off to Lourdes in France, famous for its healing waters and a Christian pilgrimage site. 

‘She’s just stepped down this year and is passing the baton onto the next generation after selflessly giving herself to this cause since the ‘80s, organising and fundraising for these trips year after year,’ said her nominator, who wishes to remain anonymous. 

‘Her trips not only mean those who are normally shut off from such opportunities get to go, it also gives their normal carers a chance to get a rest for themselves.

‘It’s a lifetime of work, and she deserves recognition.’

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