SWAN Transport, a community focused charity based in Radstock need more volunteer drivers to support their transport scheme. SWAN supports isolated individuals and those struggling to access public or private transport, as well as works to tackle loneliness and isolation within our rural communities. Despite recent recruitment, the demand for the service is constantly growing and the charity have a waiting list for passengers in need of regular journeys.
Becoming a volunteer with SWAN is incredibly rewarding and is a real lifeline for those with no alternative provisions; when asked why community transport is important to our current volunteer drivers, responses included:
“Living in a rural area, lots of people would be stuck. And who’s to say, I could be stuck myself in a few years”, “With the lack of public transport, especially in the countryside, it is important for the elderly and infirm”, and “Having seen what SWAN means to some of our passengers – it is a very important part of their lives, which makes it important to me”.
SWAN’s Transport Scheme Manager, Sofia Perkins, said “volunteering is more than just giving back to your community; it’s also a way to meet new friends, feel engaged and be supported whilst doing something worthwhile”.
In early March, the charity hosted a fun quiz and buffet at a local village hall for their volunteers to say thank you for their commitment and are planning more social events throughout the year for their dedicated team.
When asked what they would say to someone considering becoming a volunteer driver, our team responded with:
“Do it! For camaraderie and the fun lovely team”, “Definitely do it – you won’t regret it!”, and “Go for it – you will get so much out of it and probably give your passengers a happy day”.
If you could give a few hours a week in this flexible voluntary role, or would just like to find out more please pop into our Radstock office (next to the museum), contact sofia@swan-transport.co.uk, or call the office on 01761439 548 – you won’t regret it!
SWAN Transport is part of SWAN Advice Network, registered charity 1141296, website: swan-transport.com.
