A transport service for elderly and disabled people in Gedling borough has been given the thumbs up by passengers in a recent survey.
The Gedling Voluntary Transport Service, which is used by residents who find it difficult to use public transport, was rated as “excellent” by over two thirds of people who took part in the annual satisfaction survey. The rest rated the service as “good” or “very good”.
The survey was sent out this spring and over 70 replies were received.
This is the first year the service has been run by Rushcliffe CVS and feedback proves that it is a much-valued service.
Many passengers use the service to get to health appointments, followed by visiting friends or relatives, for social outings, going to the hairdressers and shopping.
Carolyn Perry, chief executive of Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service (CVS), who runs the service said: “The voluntary transport scheme is a vital lifeline for our passengers.
“We are delighted that each year they rate the service so highly. This is in no small part to the fabulous voluntary drivers who transport passenger to and from their destination and provide a friendly service. “
“The survey very clearly indicates passengers highly value the scheme and it improves their quality of life immensely.”
Gedling Voluntary Transport Service relies on the goodwill and reliability of its drivers. There is a desperate shortage of drivers throughout the Gedling borough area.
Carolyn Perry added: “We would love to expand the scheme and take on more passengers, but to do this we need more drivers.
“If anyone has any spare time one day a week, can drive a car, has a clean licence and loves helping older people, then we would be very pleased if they got in touch. Drivers are paid 45p per mile and use their own vehicle.
“Drivers also undergo a DBS check to ensure they are suitable people to take our passengers.”
Anyone who would like to be a volunteer driver should email gedlingtransport@rushcliffecvs.org.uk or call during officer hours for more details on 0115 969 9060.
