Minibus boost for community transport charities

Mary Burke from the Volunteer Driver Service receives the keys to a minibus donated by Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority

People in the Borough who have difficulty getting out and about have benefited from two minibuses donated to charities and community organisations.

Every year Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority (GMITA) donates fully refurbished former Ring & Ride minibuses to charities and voluntary organisations that meet set criteria.

The latest round of donations saw Rochdale Community Transport receive a minibus as well as being granted £15,000 towards a nearly new minibus.

Rochdale Boroughwide Volunteer Drivers Scheme (VDS) also received a minibus.

Rochdale VDS was launched in 2008 as part of Rochdale’s Partnerships for Older People Project (POPPs) and provides transport for older people to attend health appointments and a range of social events in the area including Tai Chi classes, IT lessons and a Luncheon Club.

The minibus donation means the 15 voluntary drivers, who previously used their own cars, can also use the dedicated vehicle to offer a service.

The former Ring & Ride minibuses are all 14 seat, fully accessible Mercedes Benz sprinters and have undergone a full service and refurbishment before delivery to the charities.

For further information or to book a journey with the Volunteer Driver’s Scheme contact Rochdale’s Partnerships for Older People Project (POPPs) on 01706 926666.

The scheme operates Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 5.30pm and journeys are charged at a maximum of 40p per mile. As there is no waiting time charge, costs for trips outside of the local area such as hospital appointments are significantly reduced.