Charity Appeals For Southport Volunteer Drivers

by
31st March 2016

A Sefton charity is appealing for volunteer drivers to join a new community transport scheme for older people in Southport.

The Connected Communities team at Sefton CVS is looking for people who can help older residents to get out and about and enjoy the wide range of activities on offer to them in the town.

Debbie Riozzie from Connected Communities explained: “Many older people would get out more if they had access to a car and the support of its driver.

“Without this help, many can end up largely housebound if they don’t have family in the area, because it may be too far to a bus stop, and the cost of frequent taxis can be prohibitive.

“That’s why we’re appealing for responsible people with a couple of hours a week to spare to come forward and enable us to get a volunteer transport scheme up and running in the area,” she said.

The project will operate from CVS’s Southport Community Centre base on Norwood Road, and volunteer drivers will need their own car and fully comprehensive insurance. Full training will be provided and all expenses will be reimbursed.

Initially drivers will be bringing people to activities at Southport Community Centre, but other venues will be added over time.

Debbie Riozzie added: “Our aim is to encourage older people’s participation in social activities because this can improve their general health and wellbeing, and thus their overall enjoyment of life.

“As well as helping us to achieve this objective, drivers will be joining a growing band of lively volunteers who are keen to make the most of life, enjoy the company of others and make a difference in their spare time.”

For more information about becoming a volunteer driver or to offer your services contact the Connected Communities team on 01704 517814.

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