Could you help the Volunteer Driver Service?

Since Heywood, Middleton & Rochdale Circle took over the Volunteer Driver Service (VDS) in February the service users have increased, but that has led to a need for more volunteers to help run the service.

VDS is a vital service for the elderly, vulnerable and isolated members of our community, providing an accessible and affordable transport service across the borough and beyond.

Mary Burke who is the Co-ordinator for the VDS said: “HMR Circle Rochdale Volunteer Drivers Service are looking to increase our team of Volunteer Administrators based at our office in the Lock 50 Business Centre, Oldham Road, Rochdale. 

“We are looking to increase our volunteers - drivers and administrators.

“This is a rewarding role delivering outstanding job satisfaction. 

“If you live in the Heywood, Rochdale, Middleton or Pennine areas and can spare a minimum of four hours a week, why not consider joining our friendly customer focused team. Volunteer expenses will be paid.”

Keith Trinnaman, a volunteer driver said: “'I became aware of the Volunteer Driver Service after talking to another volunteer, Sue Furby who had started working voluntarily in the office one day a week. 

“As an administration volunteer Sue is responsible for receiving calls from customers, logging the requested journey then scheduling and logging a driver to that journey and the general liaison between clients and drivers.

“I became involved as a driver about 15 months ago, initially giving up one day a week which soon grew to three days a week (and sometimes more) when I realised just how much the service is needed and very much appreciated by the customers. 

“It is such an enjoyable experience to drive these people and assist them with their journey, you soon begin to realise that not only are you providing such a valuable service to the customer, they also really appreciate the company you give them on their journey. 

“For anyone with a spare day (or more) I would thoroughly recommend them volunteering as a driver it is such a rewarding job to do, it is not only providing valuable transportation but also a social interface for the customer.”

For more information please contact Mary Burke on 0800 032 0868 for an informal chat or email: mary@hmrcircle.org.uk

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/115772/volunteer-driver-service-taken-over-by-hmr-circle

The Volunteer Driver Scheme was established in 2008. It was developed to respond to the needs of local older people who required a flexible, responsive and affordable service. It was originally setup to help people aged 50 and over by providing door to door trips to medical appointments and social activities across the borough. 

Currently has over 500 customers throughout the Borough of Rochdale and this is covered by just short of 40 drivers.