As part of our Love Your Community campaign in February, we're showcasing the amazing people and volunteer opportunities that make community transport happen across the Humber region.

Read on to find out more about why community transport and volunteers are so important. 

What is community transport?

Community transport services are for people who may have difficulty using public transport. These include door-to-door transport for medical appointments, shopping and often trips or outings.

What are the benefits of community transport?
Community transport enables people to live independently, participate in their community and to access education, employment, health and other services. It reduces loneliness and isolation, and is essential in rural areas. 

Why are community transport Volunteer Drivers important?
Volunteer Drivers enable all of these services and benefits to happen. They offer a friendly face, practical support and a vital service that improves lives. 

What will I drive as a Volunteer Driver?
Depending on the volunteer opportunity, you may drive your own car, a van, or a 9+ seater mini bus.

What do I need to become a Volunteer Driver?
You will need a full UK driving licence.
Depending on the volunteer opportunity and vehicle, you may need a D1 entitlement on your driving licence or a PCV licence.

What support will I have to get started?
Depending on the volunteer opportunity, you may need need a DBS check which will be arranged by the organisation you're volunteering with. 
You will receive a full induction and training.
You may receive MiDAS minibus training and an assessment.
You should be offered out-of-pocket travel expenses.
You may be issued a uniform, hi-vis jacket, photo ID or name badge.

Who currently provides community transport services?
Holderness Area Rural Transport (HART) - based in Hornsea
East Hull Community Transport - based in HU5 area of Hull
The Goole Go Far - based in Goole
Beverley Community Lift - based in Beverley and Pocklington

Who else currently has Volunteer Driver opportunities?
Re-Engage
The Green Team
British Red Cross
Dove House Hospice 
Fareshare Hull and Humber
Emmaus Hull and East Riding

If you think you could be an amazing Community Transport Volunteer Driver, search for all local opportunities here:
Volunteer Driver Opportunities

To find out more about what being a Volunteer Driver is like, read a case study:
Being a Community Transport Volunteer Driver
Volunteer Driver Kay at HART