Age Concern warns of community transport crisis in North Devon

Age Concern has highlighted a severe community transport crisis affecting North Devon's elderly residents. 

With a current team of 23 volunteer drivers, the charity is struggling to meet the growing demand for transportation among people aged 60 and over.

The volunteers are currently making approximately 60 journeys each week to help with medical, practical, and social needs, but the charity urgently needs an additional 20 drivers to address existing waiting lists.

Drivers for Age Concern are compensated at 45p per mile, with insurance coverage protecting their no-claims bonuses. 

The role is highly flexible, allowing volunteers to choose their hours and accept or reject drives based on their availability. 

Optional training courses and quarterly events are also offered to volunteers.

Age Concern has explained that North Devon is home to around 30,000 residents aged 60 and above, with approximately 10,000 needing support, many of whom are over 80. 

Without adequate transportation, these individuals are at risk of isolation, which adversely affects both their mental and physical health. 

Regular taxis and buses are often unaffordable or inaccessible, particularly for those with mobility issues, such as walking aids or frailty.

The organisation says that access to transportation is crucial for attending medical appointments, including GP visits, dental check-ups, and hospital appointments. 

It also supports vital health screening and immunisation programmes. In Devon, health screening attendance is only 25.8 per cent, compared to 41.3 per cent in England, contributing to shorter and less healthy lives for some residents.

The organisation explained that for those who do not use computers or smartphones, regular trips to the supermarket can be life-changing. 

Many older individuals rely on transportation to get essential groceries, while others need help with shopping due to mobility issues.

Community activities provided by Age Concern and other local charities, including exercise classes, lunch clubs, and craft sessions, play a significant role in maintaining health and well-being. 

However, without reliable transportation, many elderly residents cannot access these vital services.

Age Concern urges anyone interested in volunteering to consider joining their team to help bridge this critical gap in community support. 

For more information or to get involved, please contact Age Concern directly.

If you are interested in their driving roles, you can contact Jill on 01271 445134, or email jill@ageconcernnorthdevon.org.uk

Alternatively, you call into their office, Age Concern, 116-118 Boutport Street, Barnstaple,

EX31 1TD, they are open Monday – Friday 9.30am – 3.30pm.