Drive with a difference: volunteer drivers needed!
Non-Emergency Patient Transport Volunteer Drivers needed in West Norfolk
Voluntary Norfolk is urgently seeking volunteer drivers to join its Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service, with a particular focus on supporting patients in the King’s Lynn and West Norfolk areas.
They are inviting local people to come along to a friendly drop-in event at Gaywood Library on Tuesday 29th April from 10am to 12pm to find out more about what the role entails. So, if you’ve ever thought about helping others, this is a great chance to find out how you could become a volunteer driver.
The event is for anyone who might be interested in giving a bit of their time to help people get to hospital or other essential medical appointments. You can pop in for a coffee, a slice of cake, and a chat with the team. There’s no pressure to sign up – it’s just a chance to learn more.
What do our Volunteer Drivers do?
This vital service helps take the pressure off ambulance crews. It also provides patients with a positive and more personal experience.
Volunteer drivers use their own cars to give people lifts to and from medical appointments. Many of the people they help wouldn’t be able to get there without them. The role is flexible and rewarding. Volunteers can do as much or as little as they like, and it’s a great way to do something kind for your community.
Some of the volunteers are former patients themselves and are eager to give something back taking people to appointments at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital or possibly further afield to Addenbrookes in Cambridgeshire. Typically, volunteers give up half a day each week to take local people to outpatient appointments or regular treatments, such as renal dialysis. But you can give as much or as little time as you have spare. Voluntary Norfolk provides full training, support and all expenses are reimbursed, including mileage.
At the drop in session you’ll be able to talk to Ian Whiting, who helps organise the volunteer drivers, and also meet some of the lovely drivers already helping out in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk.
What’s involved?
Ian Whiting, Voluntary Norfolk’s volunteer coordinator, said:
“Our volunteer drivers make a real difference to people across Norfolk. They help patients who might be feeling worried or alone, and they always bring a friendly face. The volunteers really engage with the patients, offering more than just a lift… They create an opportunity for meaningful interaction, which many patients deeply appreciate.
“The fact that several of the drivers have done the role for over 10years shows how rewarding it is, not just for the person being taken to their appointment, but for the volunteers themselves.”
“But the reality is that we need more volunteers. We’re especially looking for more volunteers in King’s Lynn and around West Norfolk. So, if you like driving and enjoy helping people, this could be perfect for you.”
One of the volunteer drivers, Brian Nelson, who is based in West Norfolk, said:
“It’s a very satisfying position to hold. Every day and every run are different. No two patients are the same and some of the stories they confide in me are amazing. I have been doing voluntary hospital medical runs for several years. Two things you need most are empathy and patience. If you have these and are accepted to fill the role, I am sure you will love it.”
Event details:
📍 Gaywood Library
📅 Tuesday 29th April
🕙 10am to 12pm
Come along, even if it’s just for five minutes – we’d love to see you!
If you can’t make the drop in session but still want to get involved
Volunteer drivers are needed all year round. If you live in or around King’s Lynn, Downham Market, Hunstanton or Swaffham and would like to make a real difference in your community, Voluntary Norfolk would love to hear from you at any time! To learn more about becoming a Non-Emergency Patient Transport Volunteer, visit www.voluntarynorfolk.org.uk or contact Ian at Ian.Whiting@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk.
