Do you have some spare time to volunteer as a Downton Link driver?
As a volunteer driver you will help provide a vital transport link for people in the local community who are unable to use other means of transport. Downton Link provides transport to hospitals, surgeries, dentists, local social events and other essential services, making a practical and valued difference to local residents. Drivers are reimbursed monthly for mileage. Volunteer drivers choose how much time they can offer. Client journeys are advertised by email, so drivers can volunteer for the jobs they are willing to do. You can offer to do 1-2 drives a month or 1-2 jobs a week – it is entirely up to you. We usually operate Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, covering Downton, Charlton-All-Saints, Redlynch, Morgan’s Vale, Woodfalls, Lover, Hale, Woodgreen and Breamore. Existing drivers often say that volunteering for Downton Link is rewarding and greatly appreciated by the local community, especially by elderly residents. If you can give some time as a volunteer driver, please contact 01725 513807 or email info@downtonlink.org.uk
Do you have some spare time to volunteer as a Downton Link Co-ordinator?
A co-ordinator is the first point of contact for any client wishing to use the service. Requests for drivers are received by phone, and the co-ordinator records the journey request in the Link electronic diary so that a suitable driver can be found (only basic computer skills are required as full training is provided). The co-ordinator maintains the client database, adding new clients when needed, and sends out emails to the drivers advertising the available drives. Clients are normally asked to give at least 48 hours’ notice, although a week’s notice is normal. Drivers respond to the email by booking their own drives in the Link System. Co-ordinators work on a rota basis, one week at a time. However, you do not need to be by the telephone all day as we have a very efficient answer service. A friendly, patient telephone manner is essential, as some clients may have limited contact with others during the day. Downton Link aims to fulfil all reasonable client requests, including shopping and social journeys, while giving priority to medical appointments. If you can give some time as a co-ordinator, please contact 01725 513807 or email info@downtonlink.org.uk