Volunteers are wanted this new year to help support a scheme that provides affordable and reliable transport for the elderly and disabled people across Gedling borough.
Gedling Voluntary Transport Scheme aims to keep people active by taking them take to health appointments, to see friends and relatives, shopping and to social engagements.
Pete Chambers (pictured), one of the regular volunteer drivers, says: “When I retired I needed an interest. I saw the advert for volunteer drivers and thought what a worthwhile thing to do. I have been doing it for over thirteen years now and it’s still very satisfying knowing you are helping clients get around. Over the years many of the clients and I have become friends.”
Peter Clothier, who has been driving with the scheme for about a year, says: “I drive because I like to be able to assist people in my community who need a helping hand. I don’t want it to become a chore, so I only offer one session (usually an afternoon) a week. It’s rewarding for me to see how much pleasure it gives some of my passengers, and how appreciative they and their families are.”
Anyone who likes driving, has a clean licence and likes helping people, is urged to get in touch on gedlingtransport@rushcliffecvs.org.uk or 0115 969 9060. Expenses are covered at 45p per mile.
