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Operator Name: Fermanagh & South Tyrone Rural Transport Fermanagh & South Tyrone Rural Transport (FAST) UPDATE OCTOBER 2006
2005/06 was another great year for FAST Rural Transport with the introduction of a New Transport Officer, the beginning of a new complimentary service, CHIT CHAT and much, much more.
Partnerships
The CHIT CHAT Project is a telephone alert service for the elderly, through which clients receive a call each Monday morning to check on their well being. As FAST Rural Transport aims to address the needs of older people in rurally isolated areas, it was evident that the two projects could work well and compliment each other.
Since February 06 the CHIT CHAT Volunteers continue to call their clients not only to check on their well being but also their transport needs for the coming week and promote the Social Car Scheme. This expansion to our programme will ensure that those with restricted mobility and limited access to transport are catered for more efficiently and effectively. This not only targets social need but also encourages diverse volunteering within FAST Rural Transport.
Community involvement
FAST have 12 volunteers who are currently in the process of training, most of whom were recruited through Rural Life Week 20-23 March 06. To promote this event Bronagh Gormley, Transport Officer accompanied the FAST bus to the various operating areas. This gave Bronagh as the New Face at FAST, the opportunity to get a real feel for Rural Life and to meet a sample of the various user groups to strengthen relationships, encourage new users and to obtain feedback.
Acknowledgements
In March 2006 Brian Arlow (Public Relations Consultant) carried out an evaluation into several examples of Social Economy within Northern Ireland on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Investment. FAST Rural Transport was asked to be a part of this process and as a result a Report was produced highlighting the need and importance of Rural Transport in Northern Ireland.
FAST has become an indispensable part of daily life for the regions elderly, those with disabilities and school children as well as sports, church community and youth groups. The organisations expanding range of services has made a real difference to dispersed communities living in Fermanagh and South Tyrones significant landmass.
The report proved to be a very useful document and showcases the range of activities and services that are offered by Rural Transport Projects.
FAST Forward
The staff and volunteers look forward to the coming year, working towards enhancing our services for the good of the community.
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FAST Rural Transport are holding their Annual General Meeting 13th September 7pm in the ARC Healthy Living Centre, Irvinestown.
For an agenda and directions please contact Bronagh
028 686 28484 or email fast@rtfni.org
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FAST Holidays
The office will be closed on the following dates:
Monday 28th Aug 06
Monday 25th Dec 06 to Tuesday 2nd Jan 07
Friday 16th Mar 07
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If you wish to obtain further information on any of our services please do not hesitate to contact the office.
Audio / Braile Brochures available upon request
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