Our volunteer car scheme has been running since 1989 and has increased to over 1,300 clients.

Individual Car Trips

The scheme is run by our part time admin staff. Journeys are all carried out by volunteer drivers, some of these drivers have been with us for well over a decade.

Our volunteer drivers use their own cars to take clients from their home directly to their destination and back. Most can carry wheel chairs in the boot. For clients who need to travel in their wheel chairs, we also have a number of specially adapted cars and mini-buses.

If you live in Ryedale and think that the volunteer car scheme will be of benefit to you, please call the office to discuss how we can help.

Our drivers will wait for upto 2 hours at the clients destination until they are ready to return.  They have volunteered because they enjoy meeting and helping people.  Clients are welcome to bring a companion at no extra cost.

Cost

Journeys are charged at 45p per mile (min charge of £4.50) and this payment is given directly to the driver at the end of the journey.

The total miles includes the mileage from the volunteer drivers  home to the clients home as well as the trip itself.  We endeavour to use a volunteer close to the client but this cost can vary with different volunteers and their availability.

As a charity, the scheme is supported by sponsors but we do ask clients to make an annual voluntary donation as a contribution towards running the booking desk.

Amount of Notice Required

As we rely on the goodwill of our volunteers and their availability, as much notice as possible is appreciated (usually at least a week is recommended).  However, in an emergency, we’ll do our very best to find a volunteer driver.

Types of Journey for Individual Car Trips

Our volunteer car scheme is designed to help you get out and about. Here are some examples of  trips undertaken:

• Medical appointmants (these are always prioritised)
• Shopping
• Family & Friend visits
• Social events

How to Apply

Start by having a chat with us to discuss your particular situation. We can then offer the right transport to suit your needs, including special requirements like needing to take your wheelchair or guide dog with you. 

To register your details click here and enter  your data in our registration form.

Our office hours for the volunteer car scheme are Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 2.30pm. For further information about this service please call 01653 698888 or you can email us on bookings@ryedalect.org