Inside the Okehampton volunteer drivers providing a lifeline to rural residents

For many people across our rural towns and villages, getting to a medical appointment can be a challenge. 

Health and mobility conditions, limited public transport, long distances, and the rising cost of taxis mean that a simple trip to the doctor can feel impossible. 

That’s where the Okehampton District Community Transport Group (ODCTG) steps in, and where volunteers like Debbie and Graham are quietly transforming lives.

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Volunteering has always been part of Debbie’s DNA. 

She is a member of the Chagford Show Committee and is well known for turning up to community events with a homemade cake.

Working with her husband, a Dartmoor tour guide, she presents photos which illustrate his talks to groups about the area, helping to raise money for FORCE and Devon Air Ambulance. Giving back is simply what she does.

After a career in nursing, Debbie even began training as a Marie Curie respite helper, until her own cancer diagnosis forced her to pause. 

When her treatment ended, she still felt the same pull to help others, but she wasn’t sure where she fit. 

She wanted to make a difference without the pressure of a fixed rota or the emotional intensity of care work.

Then, in 2022, she bumped into a manager from ODCTG. “I said I wanted to volunteer somewhere worthwhile, but my diary is busy and I didn’t want to let anyone down,” Debbie recalls. 

It was suggested she consider becoming a volunteer driver, a role that turned out to be exactly what Debbie had been searching for.

ABOVE: Debbie from Okehampton District Community Transport Group in her car

A flexible way to make a real difference

As a volunteer driver, Debbie uses her own car to take people to essential appointments. She receives a mileage allowance, so the only thing she donates is her time.

“It’s completely flexible,” she says. “I can take or turn down lifts depending on what I’ve got on. Paula and Claire in the office are so friendly, they never want it to feel like a chore.”

Most of her passengers live in rural areas and can no longer drive. Many tell her, “I couldn’t manage without this service.” 

Debbie usually covers one or two lifts a week, fitting them around shopping trips, library visits, or simply waiting in the car with a book.

“It’s such a sociable role,” she says. “People are interesting, and you get to know them. You really do feel you’ve made someone’s day easier.”

Graham’s story: “I wanted to give something back”

Graham’s route into volunteering was different, but his motivation was the same: to help people who would otherwise struggle.

After retiring from a career in engineering, Graham found himself with time on his hands and a desire to stay active in the community.

“I didn’t want to sit at home,” he says. “I wanted to give something back, but I didn’t want anything too formal or demanding.”

A friend mentioned ODCTG, and Graham decided to give it a try. He quickly discovered that the role offered exactly the balance he was looking for.

“I like driving, I like meeting people, and I like feeling useful,” he says. “You can do as much or as little as you want. Some weeks I take several people; other weeks I take none. It fits around my life perfectly.”

What surprised him most was how rewarding the work feels.

“You realise how many people rely on this service. Some live miles from anywhere. Some haven’t got family nearby. When you turn up, you can see the relief on their faces.”

Like Debbie, he values the social side too.

“You meet all sorts of people. You hear their stories. It keeps you connected.”

A welcoming community of volunteers

Although driving is mostly a solo activity, ODCTG makes sure volunteers feel part of a team. 

There are regular coffee mornings, Christmas meals, and informal get-togethers, and the office is always open for a chat.

“It’s a lovely group to be part of,” Debbie says.

Graham agrees: “Everyone is friendly. You feel appreciated.”

Volunteers simply need a vehicle, the usual checks, and a willingness to help. 

Directions are provided for rural addresses, and drivers carry ID badges so clients know who to expect.

Want to know more? Come along for coffee

ODCTG is always looking for more drivers, and the more volunteers they have, the more people they can support.

Whether you have a few hours a week or just the occasional free morning, volunteering as a driver offers something rare: a flexible, rewarding way to support your neighbours, strengthen your community, and brighten someone’s day.

As Graham puts it, “It really is a rewarding way to spend a few hours. You know you’ve made a difference, and people are so grateful this service exists.”