South Yorkshire’s Mayor appeals for volunteer drivers to support local people
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard is calling for volunteers to make a real difference to people’s lives by becoming a volunteer driver or passenger assistant to support the community transport network across the region.
Volunteers play a vital role in supporting passengers who might otherwise struggle to get out and about. By offering their time, volunteers help people maintain a healthy, independent lifestyle and stay connected to their community.
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority provides £1.7million every year in grants to bus operators in the region to provide community transport, a not-for profit, locally run transport service that helps people who can’t easily use public transport.
As a volunteer driver or passenger assistant, you would:
- Support passengers who have difficulty using, or are unable to use, public transport
- Join a friendly, supportive team providing accessible transport services across South Yorkshire
- Help make every journey safe, welcoming and enjoyable
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “Volunteers are the beating heart of community transport in South Yorkshire. They help people stay active, connected and independent; often at moments when they need it most.
“By giving just a little of your time you can make a huge difference to someone’s day and help keep these vital services running for the people who rely on them.”
Richard is a volunteer driver in Gleadless Valley and enjoys his role: “I volunteer to get people out and about as sometimes we are the only point of contact for them.
“I want to make a difference to the wider community and to give back, making a difference to people’s lives, having a laugh and a joke with them when they are on the bus. It makes their day and makes me happy too.”
Jacky is a volunteer passenger assistant in Mosborough and says she enjoys the company of working with other people: “I really enjoy going to Lunch Clubs its good fun and even better company.
“It makes me feel useful because I’m helping people to get to the Lunch Clubs, otherwise they wouldn’t get out. They really look forward to going on the minibus and it makes for a great atmosphere.”
If you’re aged 21 or over, you can volunteer in a way that fits around your life – weekly, fortnightly or even monthly.
To learn more or get involved head to the Community Transport in South Yorkshire page and help make every journey matter.
