What does it involve?
The Care Group drivers are unpaid volunteers who use their own cars to transport patients to their medical appointment. They wait until the end of the appointment and drive the passenger home again.
Drivers are reimbursed mileage costs at a standard rate to cover travel expenses, in accordance with HMRC guidance.
All drivers must:
- Hold a Category B (Full UK car licence) which they have held for at least 2 years.
- Have access to a suitable, roadworthy vehicle that is properly taxed, insured, and has a valid MOT certificate.
- Have a fully comprehensive insurance policy for the vehicle they will be using and the policy must cover Volunteer Driving. Many insurance companies include this as standard, but others may charge a premium for this.
Personal qualities
Volunteers will be driving and accompanying vulnerable people who may be anxious about their appointment, and may have disabilities and difficulties. The following personal qualities are essential:
- reliability and commitment
- kindness and compassion
- patience and calmness
- navigation skills – when driving, parking and finding the way around a hospital
- fit and able-bodied – drivers are not allowed to lift passengers, but may need to help them in and out of the car, and provide support while walking. They may also be required to push a wheelchair.
Parking
- Drivers are given a Hospital Parking Permit provided by Hampshire County Council for Volunteer Scheme Drivers.
- The Care Group have some Organization Blue Badges and many patients have their own, to enable parking for disabled passengers near to their destination.
How to apply
Before being accepted as a driver, applicants will first:
- complete an application form
- provide 2 personal character references
- undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.