Volunteer drivers needed to help others in the community

The Norfolk Community Transport Association (NCTA) is looking for volunteer drivers willing to help people in the local community.
 

 
There are nearly 50 community transport schemes operating across the county, but as NCTA chair Kate Gill explained: “Our schemes rely heavily on the important contribution made by volunteers giving of their time and energy – as drivers, administrators, trustees and passenger assistants – but we are especially short of drivers.
 
“We’re in urgent of people who are willing to give a few hours of their time to drive local residents on straightforward but essential journeys.”
 
In a mainly rural county like Norfolk, community transport is many people’s only means of getting to and from healthcare appointments or just to the local shops.
 
Around 250,000 journeys a year are provided across the county, helping local residents live independently and access social activities, education and employment. This plays an important part in tackling social isolation and is especially important for older people and those with disability issues, but can also be a lifeline for younger people and families who lack their own transport.
 
“We’re very lucky in Norfolk,” added Ms Gill. “Many communities have a volunteer car scheme, a local community-run bus service or dial-a-ride scheme offering responsive and accessible travel option, but we do need drivers and would urge anyone who feels they might be able to contribute to the wellbeing of others in their community to get in touch to see how they might be able to help.”
 
Commercial operators often find rural routes uneconomic and in some areas of the county there are just no transport choices available.
 
Some community transport schemes serve just one village; others provide extended dial-a-ride bus services across wider areas; and still others arrange social trips and days out.
 
Norfolk Community Transport Association is the collective voice for the many community transport providers across Norfolk, championing the sector and promoting its vital contribution to local community services. NCTA also helps match people with schemes in their area – either as passengers or potential volunteers.
 

  • If you could help as a volunteer driver, or would just like to find out more about what might be involved, please visit www.ncta.org.uk or call 01362 698216.

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