Shropshire County Council chiefs appeal for people to become volunteer drivers

SHROPSHIRE County Council chiefs are appealing for more people to join a team of volunteer drivers.

They are looking for anyone who can provide vital transport for people with special needs.

The Voluntary Car Service (VCS) has about 100 volunteer drivers and escorts who, between them, cover one million miles annually on journeys in and outside Shropshire.

Volunteers carry out a number of regular journeys, such as taking a special needs child from home to school, or driving an older person to a day centre.

The majority of the volunteer drivers are retired.

The county council pays a set rate for mileage and a contribution toward telephone costs. Escorts are paid a set amount for each journey.

Cllr John Everall, cabinet member for environment and sustainability, said: “Volunteer drivers and escorts play a vital and valuable role helping to transport elderly and disabled people around the county and we are always on the lookout for more.

“People can offer as much or as little time as they like.

“No formal training is required, but drivers must be medically fit to drive.”

Anyone interesting in registering as a volunteer driver or escort can call voluntary car co-ordinator Katie Willocks on 01743 253313 or e-mail katie. willocks@shropshire.gov.uk

Whitchurch Herald, 19th March 2009