You may or may not already be aware of our service that would be of benefit to residents in your parish and also to anyone that may wish to volunteer.
Royal Voluntary Service (formerly WRVS) has run a Community Transport Service within the Blackburn, Darwen & Ribble Valley area for over 12 months.
To provide this service, the volunteers become part of the volunteer team, they are DBS checked, undertake a comprehensive training programme and all they ask is that the service user cover their fuel and running costs, with a small fee based on mileage.
The volunteers are there to whisk older people door to door, whether it be to a health appointment, the shops or to see a friend. With a chat along the way, and a helping hand if needed.
- Visiting family and friends
- Getting to a lunch club or social club
- Shopping, whether it’s for weekly essentials or a treat
- To see a friend, join a class or socialise
- Personal care, like the hairdressers
They also carry ID so the service users can be sure they’re genuine and trustworthy when they meet them. The volunteer would also be happy to stay and wait with the service user for example if they were going to an appointment, or shopping in Morrisons etc. To provide that extra level of companionship and support.
This is a really vital service for older people in our community and really does make a crucial difference. Could our community transport service help any of your residents get around and stay independent? Or do you know anyone who could be one of our volunteer drivers? If so, please contact us at your local Royal Voluntary Service Office on 01772 958506 or email lancashirehub@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk
Please click to see RVS Community Transport Information Leaflet. The cost for the service is £4 for the first 3 miles and 60p a mile thereafter.
Royal Voluntary Service Lancashire Hub
41a Moor Lane Clitheroe BB7 1BE
Tel: 01772 958506