VOLUNTEERS are wanted to help people travel from increasingly isolated communities around Rugby.
WRCC Back & 4th – a charity which runs a free minibus service to rural residents – is searching for new volunteer drivers.
The charity wants to add to its team of 30 drivers to expand its services to more community groups across the borough, amid recent cuts to bus services in the area.
Volunteer driver Neil said: “Even after a very full and interesting working life, minibus driving has turned out to be one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever undertaken.”
Catherine, another volunteer, added: “This work offers me an excellent opportunity to give something back to my local community and make a difference to the people around me.
“It has also given me the ability to develop new skills and build on existing experiences and knowledge. Volunteering has boosted my self-esteem, having been made redundant from my career of 25 years.”
John added: “We give something to people that makes their lives that bit better – and the work certainly gives us a sense of usefulness.”
A Back & 4th client said: “It’s such a great service; I’m able to get out of the house and have a chat with new friends while we are on our journey.
“The driver is always so cheerful and helpful and I’d be lost without it!”
WRCC Volunteer Recruitment Officer Rebecca Palmer said many clients see the service as a lifeline.
She said: “The service facilitates companionship, a chance to pursue personal interests, and visit places of significance continuing lifelong learning.
“Volunteers will have the chance to be part of a happy and supportive team, learn new skills, use existing ones, meet new people and travel to interesting places.
“If we are able to recruit more volunteer drivers to the team we will be unlikely to turn away a community group who request an outing because we don’t have an available driver.”
Volunteer drivers will be given free minibus and safety awareness training which gives the driver a nationally recognised qualification.
Call 01789 471595 (Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm) to volunteer, or for more information.
