USERS of the Dial a Ride disability bus service took a diversion from their normal routes this afternoon to visit the Civic Offices.

They came to meet with representatives from the Labour Party so that they could hear first-hand what possible reductions in the service could mean for those who rely on it.

Negotiations are ongoing between Dial a Ride and Swindon Borough Council in an attempt to renew the current three year contract, worth £313,500, which runs out at the end of the month.

A part-year reduction of £100,000 in funding for the service was approved earlier this year and it is likely that any future agreement would require a further reduction still.

The council has said that if an agreement cannot be reached in time then they would look elsewhere for a new arrangement.

Whatever the outcome, their aim is to be in a position, by 2020, where they no longer subsidise any transport services, including the shuttle bus service for the disabled.

Among the visitors to the Civic Offices was Bridget Coady, 72, who lives in Penhill.

She asked: “Do they even realise what they’re going to be taking away from people like us?

“This is how I get out, how I do my shopping, pay my bills, see my grandchildren, get to the doctors – it would take away our independence – it’s disgraceful.”

When asked whether using taxis or conventional bus services would be a possible alternative, the answer was a resounding no.

“People can’t afford taxis and most of us can’t manage the walk to the bus stop,” added Catherine Horan, 73, of Upper Stratton.

It was also highlighted that many taxi vehicles now cannot accommodate the width of a wheelchair, even traditional black cab models struggle to fit some of the larger electric models.

Eleanor Dixon, 57, from Beechcroft, is paralysed and relies on a wheelchair to get around.

She said: “You can’t specify a particular type of vehicle every time you phone a taxi, it doesn’t work like that.

“I’m only 57 but without Dial-a-Ride I would be in a nursing home by now, that’s the difference they make.”

Although the service is often thought of as a way for getting the older generations into town to shop or get to medical appointments, it was also pointed out that some of those using the buses are actually going to and from work.

There were fears that any significant reduction in the service could deprive those people of their ability to earn a living and enjoy the emotional benefits that employment provides.

Coun Derique Montaut (Lab – Liden, Eldene and Park South), who facilitated the visit, said: “I met with these Dial-a-Ride users to understand how it helps improve their lives and understand how a cut or complete closure to the Dial a Ride service might lead to their lives declining.

“I will be noting their comments and am planning to meet with the Cabinet Member for Transport soon to pass on this information.”