Meet some of the fabulous volunteer drivers in Gedling borough who keep Rushcliffe CVS’ Voluntary Transport Schemes moving and growing.
Pam Loydall
Pam Loyal, pictured, left, from Arnold, got into volunteering after being made redundant from Notts County Council. Pam was a teaching assistant for over 25 years and she was too young to retire. Pam says: “I wanted something to keep me occupied and I have been a volunteer driver now for three years. I love it. I’m a people person and volunteering gives me a purpose. I am a great believer too that if you can make someone happy, then that makes you happy too. I love the passengers, they appreciate the service and they like a chat. I’d recommend being a volunteer driver to anyone. I think it would also be a good opportunity for students at the local universities and colleges – a good chance to work in the community, try out some new skills and provide a vital lifeline to older and disabled people.”
Nuru Hedayati-mehdiabadi
Nuru Hedayati-mehdiabadi, pictured, left, from Carlton is another one of our tireless volunteers. Nuru says: “I have been a volunteer driver now for 10 years. I like to keep busy and love helping people. I would urge anyone who can drive and who has the time to sign up as a volunteer driver.
Rushcliffe CVS is still looking for voluntary drivers in Gedling to take elderly customers to the doctors, to appointments, shopping, to social clubs and help them get out and about. The scheme currently has over 20 regular volunteer drivers on its books, but is keen to expand and take on another 20 drivers to meet the increased demand.
The voluntary transport scheme is run by Rushcliffe CVS who has been awarded the Community Transport Association Quality Mark demonstrating their top class transport operations, governance, personnel, health and safety and corporate social responsibility.
Rushcliffe CVS has been organising transport for elderly and vulnerable people for over 30 years. Volunteers use their own cars to take passengers out. Most drivers are retired or have at least 2 hours availability between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
Drivers need to have a car that is in good conditions tidy, MOT’d, insured and need to like helping people and talking to them. Drivers all have to undergo DRB (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks as well and providing 2 references. Passengers pay an annual registration fee and 45p/mile to cover the driver’s costs.
If you would like to volunteer as a driver, or would like to use the service or know someone who would, call the transport team on 0115 969 9060 or email gedlingtransport@rushcliffecvs.org.uk to find out more.
