Volunteer Now is currently recruiting volunteer drivers to help transport older, isolated people to essential appointments. 

The Driving Scheme is a community car service that provides transport for older people within the Belfast area who have no other way to access healthcare due to social isolation or friends and relatives not having the means to support them.

Volunteer drivers use their own cars to collect clients, take them to their appointments and return them home again. 

They need to have a valid driving licence, up to date MOT and insurance, and most importantly be friendly and reliable.

Volunteer Now will reimburse out of pocket expenses, provide ongoing support, invite you to regular get togethers and offer training opportunities.

Lauren Harrison, transport officer with Volunteer Now, said: “The Driving Scheme has been in operation for over 30 years and has been an essential service to many older folk who are socially isolated and who perhaps don’t have the confidence or means to either use public transport or to organise a private taxi.  

“Our volunteer drivers provide a door-to-door service for these people to attend day centres and medical appointments.  The drivers thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to make a real difference to these clients by providing a little extra support, some patience and a friendly chat.

She added: “Volunteers range in age and there is no huge commitment of time – a couple of hours a fortnight can still make a real difference.”

If you would be interested in getting involved or would like more information, contact Lauren at Volunteer Now on 028 9023 2020 or lauren.harrison@volunteernow.co.uk.