A charity, set up in memory of a Swanage teenager, is close to having its double decker support vehicle on the road, thanks to the support of J.P. Morgan.

#Willdoes was founded in August 2019 by Lesley Paddy after the tragic death of her 14-year-old son William. Charitable status was granted in December 2019.

The charity’s current challenge is to provide a double decker bus to act as a support vehicle and hub, providing a safe space for young people to meet and access information and support.

The bus will travel to various communities and be available to local organisations that support young people.

“Youth Services in Dorset have been severely impacted by recent austerity measures, relying heavily on volunteers to fill the gap,” said Lesley.

“We are now very close to reaching our target and are in consultation with organisations on how the bus will be best utilised.”

#Willdoes’ focus is to promote any charitable purpose, including the promotion of education, physical and mental health and social inclusion, and to contribute financially to charitable projects for the benefit of young people in Dorset.

Bournemouth Echo:

This is done by Introducing young people to sports and other activities to help them to connect and engage socially, rather than retreat to more insular gaming and social media pastimes is a core value.

#Willdoes has now raised over £100,000 for good causes.

Tilly Cuttler of the J.P. Morgan Community Relations Committee said: “The bus will provide a great safe space and we are very pleased to be able to offer some assistance in reaching the final total.”