New volunteer community transport partnership launched to support residents
Residents unable to access vital services in Solihull will have help getting to their health and wellbeing appointments via a new community transport partnership.
The ‘Volunteer Driver Service Solihull’ and ‘Solihull Rural Community Transport’ are working in partnership, supported by Solihull Council, Citizens Advice Solihull Borough, VASA, plus Balsall, Berkswell and Meriden Parish Councils, to offer transport for residents who would otherwise struggle to attend their essential appointments.
This service provides a friendly and affordable solution to elderly individuals, people with disabilities and other residents in need who lack access to reliable transport.
Trained volunteer drivers use their own vehicles to transport residents to and from essential appointments such as the GP, hospital, opticians, and dentists, alongside support groups and lunch clubs.
Councillor Wazma Qais, cabinet member for Communities at Solihull Council, said: “It’s great to see this exciting new partnership come to life, helping to ensure that residents can access vital health appointments without barriers. This service is a true example of our community coming together.
“To ensure the ongoing success of this vital service, the partnership is looking for volunteer drivers from across the borough. Volunteers are essential to the smooth running of the service, and anyone with a vehicle, valid driving licence, a little spare time, and a passion for helping their community is encouraged to get involved.
“Volunteer drivers will receive full training and support, mileage reimbursement and flexible hours to suit their availability. This is an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of individuals in need of support while enjoying the rewards of volunteering.”
Joe, volunteer driver at Volunteer Driver Service Solihull, said: “Having retired from full time work, I wanted to be of use to the community. Since I started volunteering, I’ve felt real purpose in providing a much-needed service while enjoying connecting with the people I transport.
“People have stories to talk about on their journeys and I’m quite happy to listen as they are usually interesting, funny and knowledgeable. I feel a real gratitude from my passengers and it’s such a rewarding service to provide, and shouldn’t we all be helping each other?”
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer driver or would like to find out more, please contact:
- Volunteer Driver Service Solihull: 0300 3030 125 / info@volunteerdriverservice.org.uk
- Solihull Rural Community Transport (VASA): 01789 262889 / transport@vasa.org.uk
*please note, depending on where you’re based in Solihull you will be directed to the appropriate side of the partnership
Pictured (L-R): Joe (volunteer driver at Volunteer Driver Service), Keith (Driver Service manager at Volunteer Driver Service), Cllr Qais and David (Funding & Development manager at Solihull Rural Community Transport)
