CARERS WEEK 2016: Sunday 16th October to Saturday 22nd October 2016

JUMPING in your car or on a bus for a medical appointment is something most people take for granted.

But for many transport can be a challenge.

Launched last year St John’s Community Transport Service fills a void, providing vital transport, and a friendly driver.

Carers are often unable to take those in their care to appointments, and having a safe and reliable alternative is a godsend.

Happy

“[They] are happy and reassured knowing their elderly relatives are in safe hands,” volunteer coordinator Aimee Riddell says.

“People are so relieved to find they can access transport without having to rely on family members and public transport.”

Retired salesman Bob Hudson reckons volunteering with the service is a great way to give back to the community.

“You are working with people the same age, so you share the same interests and so on which is great…it’s more than about driving someone to an appointment, it is about giving them a familiar and friendly face and making the experience a good one for them,” he says.

Huge difference

“I haven’t done anything like this before where you get to regularly meet the same client. This is the best volunteering experience I have had, I truly feel as though I am making a huge difference to the community.

“Some of the people we drive are in care and may feel some social isolation so we can become quite close to them if we drive them regularly.”

Transport volunteers need to commit to around eight hours a fortnight and must hold a valid driver’s license.

St John’s is looking for more “friendly and community” volunteers, so if you fit the bill go to http://www.stjohnchangelives.com.au or call 1800 069 373.