Downton Link was formed in 1996 by a small group of volunteers who identified a need in the area for transport support for local elderly, disabled or otherwise vulnerable people to get to hospital, doctors, dentists and other medical appointments where public transport was not available or inappropriate to a person’s needs. Although autonomous, “The Link”, as we are known locally, became part of a network of over 40 Link Schemes in Wiltshire who are overseen by Community First, a charity within Wiltshire Council who support community organisations around the County.
Over the following 25 years Downton Link has grown considerably and we now have around 53 volunteers, mostly drivers, and a database of approaching 220 clients. Our area of operation is not just Downton but extends to Charlton-All-Saints to the north and down to Breamore and Woodgreen in the south and taking in the villages of Redlynch, Woodfalls, Morgan’s Vale, Lover, Hale and surrounding hamlets. In addition to medical appointments we also provide transport for shopping, hairdressers, social clubs, hospital visiting indeed anywhere that helps our clients keep on the move.
We do not charge for our services but rely on donations from clients when they have a drive.
If you would like further information on ways you can volunteer with Downton Link please click on the Volunteering button below – you are under no obligation.