SOS Bus service in King's Lynn closes down 

An SOS Bus service in King’s Lynn, which helped to save two lives last year, has been closed due to the lack of sustainable funding.

The decision was taken by YMCA Norfolk which has run the service since 2017. Since its launch in 2008 the service has played a vital role within King’s Lynn’s night‑time economy, offering a safe, welcoming sanctuary for young people in need.

Reporting on the closure, YMCA Norfolk CEO, John Lee, said that the service supported between 15,000-20,000 people each year with the team conducting between 200-300 patrols each year

John said: “By preventing the need for ambulance dispatches and hospital admissions, the service saved the NHS hundreds of thousands of pounds. This proactive approach not only protected vulnerable individuals but also delivered significant benefits to the wider community by easing pressure on police, ambulance, and NHS resources.

“At the heart of this work was a dedicated team of skilled staff and volunteers who provided free first aid, reassurance, and practical support at the point of need.

“Beyond its work within the night‑time economy, the SOS Bus served as a lifeline for people experiencing hardship. The service also provided food, hot drinks, clothing, hygiene essentials, and food bank vouchers,” said John.

“One of my personal memories was watching Kate Kemp-Small & Chris Lowe receive a national award at Chelsea Football Club celebrating the impact of their work. The mixture of shock and pride on their faces will stay with me for a long time. I am pleased to say they are both still part of the YMCA Norfolk team, serving in different roles.”
 
Pictured above is the SOS Bus in King's Lynn. Picture courtesy of YMCA Norfolk.