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Volunteer drivers wanted!

The Volunteer Development Agency and CTA today launched a campaign to ask people across Northern Ireland to sign up as volunteer drivers.

This is the next phase of the One Good Reason campaign which aims to encourage people in Northern Ireland over the age of 60 to give volunteering a try and to see first hand how beneficial, enjoyable and satisfying it can be both for them as an individual and for others within their community.

Community Transport Association is giving the green light to the campaign which is of particular importance at this time of year when the long winter days and nights often make it extremely difficult for older people, disabled people and those in rural communities to use public transport or access the services they require. Whether it’s an important hospital appointment, a longed for visit to a sick relative or simply a trip to the local supermarket, the promise of a lift can provide a vital lifeline to many people, regardless of age or circumstances.

Rural Community Transport organizations across NI provide just under 620,000 passenger trips per year and, with 10% more local trips in winter than during the summer, the need for volunteer drivers is greater than ever.

All volunteers are welcome as long as the individual is the holder of a clean, up-to-date driver’s license and has access to their own car. There is no definitive time commitment required - even if someone wants to volunteer for a short period of time, now is the time to do it.

Ken Sayers, a social car driver for Easilift Community Transport in the North West says; “I’ve been volunteering as a social car driver since May this year and I really enjoy giving something back to the local community here. I use my own car to transport clients to and from local health appointments, a day’s shopping or for one off events. The service really does make a big difference to people’s lives, often reducing their isolation and getting them out and about.”

Wendy Osborne, Director of the Agency added; “We’re delighted to be working with Community Transport Association and our other partners to find volunteer drivers across Northern Ireland. It really is a very worthwhile opportunity to get involved in, especially in the run up to Christmas when the adverse weather conditions often make life difficult for people and the importance of seeing family is at the forefront of our minds. It’s the ideal time to think about others and give something back.”

Kellie Armstrong, Director for NI, Community Transport Association explained; “Volunteer drivers can provide a huge boost to their local communities at this time of year. The time commitment required is as little or as much as the person involved feels comfortable devoting to it and individuals are by no means ‘signed up’ for a pre agreed length of time – we want the volunteer driving arrangement to work for everyone involved so flexibility is key!”

To find out more about becoming a volunteer driver call (from a landline) 0845 650 1190

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