Transport Volunteers Urgently Needed
Pembrokeshire Association of Community Transport Organisations (PACTO) helps people and groups to get out and about in the county.
Emma Lewis who works at PACTO told us: “Pembrokeshire’s Community Transport services help people and groups who don’t have access to their own transport and who don’t have or can’t use conventional public transport services.”
Its website (pacto.org.uk) has information about all the wonderful community transport services available in Pembrokeshire and opportunities for new volunteers to join the team. From dial-a-ride and minibus hire to wheelchair-accessible cars and mopeds to help with public transport from the Bus Buddies, help is urgently sought.
Emma says: “You can even use Community Transport to get to the pub!”
PACTO is currently looking for volunteer car and minibus drivers and (non-driving) bus buddies throughout Pembrokeshire.
Car Drivers
The most urgent need is for people to drive its wheelchair-accessible cars, based in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock. Most drivers commit to a regular day each week or fortnight. Training will be provided and expenses will be reimbursed.
The organisation also needs drivers who are willing to use their own cars. Emma says: “All you need is a car with relevant insurance, a standard driving licence, some spare time and a desire to help. Your mileage will be reimbursed at a rate of 45p per mile.”
Minibus Drivers
These are needed both occasionally and regularly for local community groups. Volunteers will be required to take a minibus driver (MiDAS) assessment. Some of the small minibuses can be driven by volunteers on an ordinary car licence (providing you have held a full licence for at least two years) and minibuses are based in locations across Pembrokeshire.
Journey Organisers
Journey organisers take bookings from passengers and match them up with volunteer drivers. Many organisers are also volunteer drivers, but this isn’t essential as this role can be done in the comfort of your own home. Royal Voluntary Service is particularly looking for a new Pembrokeshire Country Cars organiser in the Fishguard area.
Bus Buddies
Bus Buddies is a volunteer service, helping people to use Dial and Ride and Town Rider services, public transport and community car services in Pembrokeshire. PACTO Bus Buddies volunteers do small things to make a big difference to help people get out of their homes and do their shopping, get to appointments or share a cuppa in a café.
If you could lend a helping hand to someone who needs help using public or community transport, the organisation can help with training, travel costs and support.
Bus Buddies are currently required across Pembrokeshire. They are particularly needed in Fishguard and Goodwick, Tenby, Crymych and Pembroke/Pembroke Dock areas.
If you or someone you know might be able to help, even if you can’t commit much time, please give the team a call or drop them a line. They are happy to provide details.
For more information about any of these opportunities, please contact:
PACTO on 01437 770119 or hello@pacto.org.uk.
General Enquiries and Bookings: Freephone 0800 783 1584
Community Transport Development Officer: 01437 776550
Address for correspondence:
Pembrokeshire Association of Community Transport Organisations (PACTO)
Dolwerdd
Bethesda
Narberth
SA67 8HF
There is also an office base within County Hall, Haverfordwest.
Email: debbie@pacto.org.uk
