A driver with the Ripon and Rural Voluntary Car Driving Service has recently clocked up over 1,000 miles taking a Kirkby Malzeard resident and his wife to their medical appointments and to make care home visits.
Peter Clarkson has been a driver with the service for many years, and during this time has supported local clients to get out and about both on essential trips and to social events. In recognition of his efforts, Peter has recently been nominated to receive a Certificate of Volunteering from Harrogate and Ripon Centres for Voluntary Services.
Peter is one of a team of 26 drivers who offer transport to local people unable to make journeys independently either due to limited mobility or lack of access to public transport. Last year alone, the team of drivers gave 837 hours of their time to undertake 2,184 journeys in Ripon, Masham, Pateley Bridge and the surrounding areas. In the process they covered 11,691 miles whilst helping over 160 local people with journeys to where they want and need to get to.
As well as offering transport to medical appointments, the service helps people with journeys to community based activities including lunch clubs and social events. Passengers are also supported to make essential trips, such as getting to the shops or post office.
Julie Proudler, Service Co-ordinator said:
The car driving service is much more than about getting clients from A to B. We act as a social lifeline to many people who rarely get out of the home. Apart from providing reliable transport, our DBS checked drivers offer a friendly face to our clients, often waiting for them while they go to their appointment.
The service is available to local residents who struggle to get out and about. For more information on using the service or becoming a volunteer, please contact the Ripon and Rural Voluntary Car Driving Service on 01765 645907 or transport@harcvs.org.uk
