Volunteers drive Community Car Scheme

For many people living in Huntingdonshire, getting to a hospital appointment, visiting the dentist, meeting friends or even doing the weekly shop can be a challenge, especially if access to public transport is limited or mobility issues make travel difficult.

Thanks to a great team of dedicated volunteer drivers and administrators, registered charity Huntingdonshire Volunteer Centre is helping hundreds of residents stay connected, independent and active within their community each year. The Community Car Share scheme provides affordable transport for essential journeys, including medical appointments, shopping trips, social visits and other important activities where suitable public transport is unavailable.

The service is open to anyone who needs assistance getting from A to B and costs just 50p per mile (minimum £2) plus a £3 booking fee, payable directly to the driver at the end of the journey.

A local resident, who is partially sighted and relies on the charity’s invaluable service, said: “I rely on the volunteers driving me to essential appointments, Hinchingbrooke, dentist, Specsavers and exercise classes. The volunteer drivers show empathy at all times, which is
much appreciated. The office staff are always helpful and accommodating.”

Behind every journey is a volunteer giving their time to help someone in their community. Drivers use their own vehicles and choose when they are available, making the role flexible and rewarding. However, demand for the service continues to grow, and the charity is now
appealing for more volunteer drivers to join the team.

All volunteer drivers share one thing in common, a commitment to supporting their local community. Whether you’re retired, have a few spare hours during the week or are a parent available during school hours, becoming a volunteer driver could make a real difference to
someone’s life.

One of the Centre’s volunteers said: “The scheme only works if there are enough drivers. Our volunteers are truly wonderful, but we are always looking for new people who can help ensure local residents continue to access the transport they need.”

Anyone interested in using the Community Car Scheme should contact their local Huntingdonshire Volunteer Centre office in St Ives (01480 301462), St Neots (01480 476047), Huntingdon (01480 414766) and Ramsey (01487 814117).

Those interested in becoming a volunteer driver can also contact one of our offices to find out more.

And while you’re in town, why not visit the “Huntingdon Together” Charity Shop? Every purchase helps support the valuable work of the Volunteer Centres and the services they provide across the region.