Recently retired, I had some time on my hands and was looking for a way “to give something back”. Driving people around who needed help with transport for their daily lives seemed a good place to start. This service is all the more important now that squeezed budgets in so many of the services that we have come to expect are increasingly having to be provided by volunteers. Apart from the obvious feelgood factor of helping others as a driver, the best part about driving so many different people is that everyone is always pleased to see you, and even the most mundane journeys are enjoyable. You get to know your regulars and you can become part of their lives. – Ian H

Kevin was made redundant in a round of local council cuts.  He came to BACT to see what he could do to keep himself occupied. Kevin is now driving his car regularly as a volunteer – spending a lot of time particularly to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and the James Paget University Hospital!  Whilst it’s not a wage, the expenses he gets driving help to keep his car on the road and provides him with a high level of satisfaction in helping others.  Kevin has subsequently also introduced his dad to BACT who is now volunteering for us too!

I joined bact as a volunteer driver as I became aware of the mobility issues faced by my in-laws and parents as they aged.  Meeting older people I began to appreciate their life experiences which were invariably tougher than mine.  I have also met many younger people who have various mobility issues and have always been impressed by their positivity which I hope has also been shown in my bact duties.  In summary, it has been a very rewarding experience.

Peter N