DIAL 2 DRIVE is looking to recruit volunteer drivers to help its community transport scheme for people in West Kent who are unable to access public transport due to older age, illness, disability or rural locations.
Volunteer drivers use their own cars to take clients to medical and social appointments along with shopping and trips to visit relatives.
This support enables clients to stay active and independent in their local community for longer, and helps to reduce social isolation.
The scheme currently supports more than 800 people across West Kent, with 84 volunteer drivers providing over 8,500 drives during the last year.
Clients pay a scheme membership of £20 per year and journeys are charged at 65p per mile. They can use the service as often as they wish throughout the year.
Dial 2 Drive is particularly keen to hear from anyone who has their own car and can spare a couple of hours each week – it will pay driver’s expenses.
This is a service provided by Imago, a social action charity based in Tunbridge Wells, which also delivers Kent Young Carers, Care Navigator and Short Breaks service for children and young people living with disability.
One client’s family told Dial 2 Drive: “My mother’s weekly shopping trips were the highlight of her life. Thank you for providing such an excellent service that promoted her independence.”
Another client commented: “D2D is a marvellous service. I had to give up driving after a stroke. All the staff and volunteers are great, they know what I need and are always so helpful.”
For more information about the service and volunteer driver opportunities visit www.imago.community/Community-Services/Dial-2-Drive
or call 0300 777 1200.
