Like many retired people, and also those thinking ahead to retirement, I wanted to use my new-found spare time well. This was partly for my own peace of mind but also it gave an opportunity to help others.
Planning ahead was important as there is nothing worse than having no purpose in life and the thought of waking up on a Monday morning and having nothing in the diary for that week was a bit scary. I started looking around for something suitable and read about Wendover Action Group, who run the Wendover Community Car in a local magazine. It proved to be ideal for me.
Wendover Community Car provides a door to door driving service for people in Wendover and the surrounding villages and is of particular benefit to those with reduced mobility. Volunteer drivers, who work hours to suit themselves, take their passengers to the shops, doctors’ appointments, church services, social events etc. I have even taken people to the theatre and, on one memorable occasion, a wedding. Like the passengers, the drivers are from all around the Aylesbury area.The car has a lift at the back and has been adapted to take wheelchairs so is suitable for almost everyone.
I had been driving cars for many years but was given full training on the minibus, including how to use the lifting equipment.
I have been driving for Wendover Community Car for over six years now and have met any number of wonderful people and built friendly relationships with people I would not otherwise have met. Friends sometimes tell me it is kind of me to give up my time to help, but I can honestly say I get much more out of it than I put in. Fresh air, getting round the countryside, a bit of exercise and meeting new people – what’s not to like?
Richard.
If you are interested in becoming a driver with us, just give our co-ordinator Joanne a call on 01296 317769.