In an average year we transport around 25,000 passengers on journeys covering 300,000 miles. We have more than 50 drivers who drive anything from one day to seven days a week.
The car service operates seven days a week and is provided by volunteer drivers using their own vehicles. Anyone may ask to use the service to make journeys for which neither a family car, nor public transport, is available.
Who may use the service, and what does it cost?
Anyone, young or old, able-bodied or infirm may ask to make certain journeys for which neither a family car nor any suitable form of public transport is available. The cost is based on the distance travelled. The distance is from between the driver’s home to the place where you are picked up and on to your destination. A single journey in a volunteer car costs a minimum of £3.00 for the first four miles and then 50p per mile for every additional mile. We can give you a rough idea of the cost when you book, but prices vary depending upon where the volunteer lives.
Jim, a BACT volunteer driver
Concessionary vouchers
Suffolk residents who cannot use conventional bus services and do not have a free bus pass are eligible for £100 worth of vouchers a year to use on community transport.
Transport to regular cancer treatments
Beccles Medical Centre and Bungay Medical Centre both have funds available to assist with covering the cost of transport for patients attending regular chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Bungay Medical Centre also subsidise travel for their patients, to medical appointments.
What journeys are eligible
- Local shopping and personal business
- Visiting friends and relatives, at home or in hospital
- Linking with the nearest public transport services, e g railway or bus station.
- Visiting doctors, dentists or hospital.
Who provides the cars
Volunteers provide, and drive, their own cars. They are paid a mileage rate that is guided by rates set by Suffolk County Council. Many journeys undertaken by BACT drivers are subsidised by various local authorities depending upon where the passenger lives and the reason for the journey. All of our drivers are DBS checked.
How do I arrange a journey
By telephoning on 01986 896896 between 9am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. Alternatively, call in to our office at the address shown below. (We are beside the Coop supermarket in Bungay).
We will always do our best to meet your requirements, but our ability to do so depends upon the availability of our volunteer drivers, and the volume of requests that we receive. Giving us as much notice as possible is always the best policy. If in doubt give us a ring and ask if we can help.
