Norwich SOS Bus

Project overview

In 2001, Graham was instrumental in the establishment of a hugely successful community project which has become the blueprint for similar projects across the country.

He donated his 17.4m long ‘bendy bus’, to the local council and voluntary partners who wanted to develop an outreach programme to help keep young people safe as they enjoyed the night-time economy in Norwich.

Now in its second decade of operation, the SOS bus operates every Friday and Saturday night to provide a safe space in the heart of Norwich for anyone who needs help. People can access the service by walking in off the street or can be brought in by friends or members of the public.

Pubs, clubs, members of the public and emergency services can call the SOS Bus for assistance and advice if they have a concern about someone’s wellbeing.

A charity run almost entirely by volunteers and managed by Voluntary Norfolk, the SOS Bus team works with the police, ambulance service and local pubs and nightclubs and is partially funded by the Norfolk and Waveney Clinical Commissioning Group and Norwich City Council Public Health.

Find out more about the SOS bus here.

Graham said: “The project has had a greater impact than anyone could have imagined and it's become part of the fabric of Norwich. I'm pleased that the initiative has not only proved well for the community but it's saved lives and is a great credit to all those who have volunteered their time over the years."

Our projects