A £15,000 council grant will help residents make essential journeys across North Lincolnshire, accessing hospital appointments, community activities and visiting loved ones.
The scheme provides an important lifeline, helping people, particularly the elderly, lonely, isolated or disabled living in rural areas to stay connected.
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children and families, said: “The service is highly regarded by users and provides a lifeline to hundreds of residents across North Lincolnshire.
“I would like to take the opportunity to express my thanks to the team of volunteer drivers who take time out to drive passengers. This is just one example of the fantastic community spirit the people of North Lincolnshire have.
“It’s brilliant that three new volunteer drivers have been recruited this past year, but more are needed. If you can spare a few hours to give back to the community, please come forward.”
There are 19 volunteer drivers who helped people make over 2,400 essential journeys in the last year and there has been an increase in the number of enquiries.
The scheme is run by the Humber and Wolds Rural Community Council (HWRCC) and has been supported by North Lincolnshire Council for more than a decade. They are now on the lookout for more volunteer drivers to meet demand.
Cllr Neil Poole, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is a scheme many people rely on to get out and about. Accessing community activities helps to prevent social isolation and boost wellbeing, which we know is so important.
“Many of these residents are unable to use public transport, so this scheme, which connects them to health and social services, is vital, helping them to keep safe and well.
“The grant will not only enable the service to continue but will also help to ensure that accessible transport continues to reach even more people that need it.”
To find out more about the Humber and Wolds Rural Community Council’s Volunteer Car Service, or to volunteer as a driver, please call 01652 637700.
(Photo, left to right: Carole Foster, Community Transport Co-Ordinator for HWRCC, volunteer driver Steve Gibbins, Cllr Neil Poole, HWRCC Chair of Trustees Simon Nicholson and Jane Owen, HWRCC CEO)
