NEWS from BEELINE
Above is a short film
highlighting the fantastic work of volunteer car services within Warwickshire
has recently been commissioned by Warwickshire Voluntary Transport (WVT).
WVT members operate volunteer car services which enable isolated and disadvantaged residents of Warwickshire to attend medical appointments. The vast majority of users tend to be older, affected by rural or social isolation, living with or recovering from mental ill health, or living with a disability.
WVT commissioned the film to recognise the incredible work of the many volunteers and the essential service they provide to the residents of Warwickshire and the local health authority.
Volunteers are all vetted under the Disclosure Barring Service, receive free training and offer as little or as much time as they can. Drivers receive 45p per mile to cover the running costs of their vehicle and give their time freely.
Last year WVT schemes provided over 42,000 passenger journeys, making use of 317 volunteer drivers and 41 office volunteers. The use of volunteers enables the schemes to keep their running costs low, providing excellent value for money to funders.
Volunteer drivers often provide more than just a lift to a medical appointment. They also accompany passengers to hospital wards, liaise with clinical staff regarding collection and will fetch a porter and wheelchair if required. Our clients tell us that this additional care gives them added peace of mind at often very stressful times in their life.
Recent changes within the local health authority have resulted in the withdrawal of approximately 50% of funding for the schemes. WVT hopes the film will show how vital it is to keep these voluntary services going.
WVT members operate volunteer car services which enable isolated and disadvantaged residents of Warwickshire to attend medical appointments. The vast majority of users tend to be older, affected by rural or social isolation, living with or recovering from mental ill health, or living with a disability.
WVT commissioned the film to recognise the incredible work of the many volunteers and the essential service they provide to the residents of Warwickshire and the local health authority.
Volunteers are all vetted under the Disclosure Barring Service, receive free training and offer as little or as much time as they can. Drivers receive 45p per mile to cover the running costs of their vehicle and give their time freely.
Last year WVT schemes provided over 42,000 passenger journeys, making use of 317 volunteer drivers and 41 office volunteers. The use of volunteers enables the schemes to keep their running costs low, providing excellent value for money to funders.
Volunteer drivers often provide more than just a lift to a medical appointment. They also accompany passengers to hospital wards, liaise with clinical staff regarding collection and will fetch a porter and wheelchair if required. Our clients tell us that this additional care gives them added peace of mind at often very stressful times in their life.
Recent changes within the local health authority have resulted in the withdrawal of approximately 50% of funding for the schemes. WVT hopes the film will show how vital it is to keep these voluntary services going.