Local charity #Willdoes is celebrating after receiving £20,000 in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to secure vital support for its unique mobile wellbeing service for young people across Dorset.
The funding will help keep the #Willdoes Bus – a mobile outreach unit operated in partnership with Dorset Youth Association – on the road.
The #Willdoes Bus is kitted out as a mobile meeting place for young people
Supporting young people’s wellbeing
The charity says the bus plays a vital role in supporting young people’s mental and physical wellbeing in communities across Dorchester, Portland, and Weymouth.
Typically used four nights a week, the bus is a safe, welcoming space where young people can access informal support, guidance, and connection.
Lesley Paddy set up #Willdoes in memory of her son Will, and fundraises by organising events like Swanage’s Boxing Day Swim
“Incredible work”
Lesley Paddy, founder of #Willdoes, said:
“It feels like we’ve won the lottery! This generous funding means we can secure the longevity of the service, enabling Dorset Youth Association to continue their incredible work delivering youth provision from the #Willdoes Bus.
“It currently costs around £35,000 per year to run the bus four nights a week – so we’re still actively fundraising to make sure the contract with Dorset Youth continues.
“The bus is essentially used by Dorset Youth, and we want to see it reach even further afield. It’s already making a difference in Dorchester, Portland and Weymouth, and we’re now planning to bring it to Dorchester Hospital too.”
The #Willdoes Bus with its eye-catching design
“Help keep the bus on the road”
Mike Roberts, committee member of #Willdoes and grant applicant, added:
“The idea for the #Willdoes Bus was born due to a desperate need to spread the word about mental and physical wellbeing, and to reach out to local communities in order to provide support.
“Unfortunately though, the running costs of the bus are high, and as a grants committee member, I decided to approach the National Lottery for help.
“I am just so happy for Lesley and #Willdoes – this money will help keep the bus on the road, ensuring that it continues to deliver fantastic support to children and young adults within our local communities.”
The £20,000 grant is part of The National Lottery’s ongoing mission to help communities thrive and to back projects that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Further information
- More about #Willdoes
