Charity Cotswold Friends need Volunteer Drivers

Local charity Cotswold Friends is putting out a plea for drivers in the Cirencester area and surrounding villages, as the demand on its Community Transport Service continues to increase.

Over 300 people living in Cirencester and the surrounding area use Cotswold Friends’ Community Transport Service, and more than 1,600 across the Cotswolds. With more than 12,000 journeys undertaken by the charity’s volunteer drivers last year for medical, social and practical reasons – that’s over 230 drives on average every week of the year.

Jo Hammond, CEO of Cotswold Friends said, “With many hospitals catching up with appointments after the pandemic, plus the roll-out of this season’s COVID and flu vaccinations, many of our older, vulnerable clients are needing transport to medical appointments right now.

“This is putting pressure on our existing volunteer drivers and our Community Transport service as a whole, which is vital to so many older and vulnerable people who do not have access to public transport or find it difficult to use.

“Volunteering is enjoyable and rewarding, and there is so much to be gained from it. Our drivers tell us that they feel more connected to their community and enjoy meeting new people, often making friends for life.

“Drivers are paid up to 50p per mile which significantly helps with the running costs of their vehicle. You'll be at the heart of delivering our mission to reduce isolation and support older and vulnerable people to live independently in your local community in Cirencester and the surrounding villages.”

Keith Baalham is a Cotswold Friends volunteer driver in Cirencester.

Keith says: “I was interested in becoming a volunteer for Cotswold Friends because I wanted something to do in my spare time and to help the community.