Drive for more non-emergency patient transport volunteers
Non-Emergency Patient Transport Volunteers needed in Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Waveney
Voluntary Norfolk is urgently seeking volunteer drivers to join its Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service, with a particular focus on supporting patients in the Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Waveney areas. This essential service provides a lifeline to individuals who need assistance getting to and from their medical appointments, ensuring that those who lack access to transportation can still receive the vital healthcare they require.
The Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service works in partnership with the NHS to offer door-to-door transport to patients who may be elderly, have mobility issues, or live in rural areas where public transport options are limited. Volunteers use their own vehicles to drive patients to hospitals and other medical facilities, offering not only transportation but also companionship and reassurance along the way.
A Vital Community Service
With healthcare services stretched and demand for non-emergency patient transport growing, there is an urgent need for more volunteers, especially in the Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Waveney area. By offering their time, volunteer drivers help reduce the strain on the NHS while ensuring that patients can attend vital medical appointments on time.
Ian Whiting, Volunteer Coordinator at Voluntary Norfolk, highlighted the importance of the service:
“This service is absolutely invaluable. It takes the pressure off ambulance crews, whilst also providing patients with a positive and more personal experience. The volunteers really engage with the patients, offering more than just a lift – they create an opportunity for meaningful interaction, which many patients deeply appreciate.”
“Many of our volunteers are actually former patients themselves and are eager to give something back – and they certainly do that! We are really grateful for all they do – typically giving up at least half a day each week to take local people to outpatient appointments or regular treatments, such as renal dialysis, at the James Paget hospital and sometimes further afield.”
Flexible and Rewarding
Volunteering with Voluntary Norfolk’s Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service is highly flexible. Volunteers can choose the days and times they work, making it an ideal opportunity for those looking to give back to their community without committing to a full-time role. Mileage expenses are reimbursed, and full training and support are provided.
Anne, who volunteers as a non-emergency driver shared her experience: “The volunteer role has been fabulous. I get to meet and talk to people from all walks of life who often have just the most amazing life stories to share. The other huge bonus for me has been being new to the area, it has taken me to places I would never know existed and shown me how beautiful the county is.”
“If you enjoy driving and have some time to spare, then I recommend the non-emergency transport service. I get huge satisfaction from knowing that I have helped someone get to their appointment on time (A47 traffic dependent!) and in comfort.
“The whole on boarding process was simple and not time consuming and you are fully supported with both online and face to face training before you start. The staff both at Voluntary Norfolk and HTG are professional, efficient and friendly and are there to support you.”
How to Get Involved
If you live in or around Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft or Waveney and would like to make a real difference in your community, Voluntary Norfolk would love to hear from you. To learn more about becoming a Non-Emergency Patient Transport Volunteer, click here or contact Ian at Ian.Whiting@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk.
Current roles available across Norfolk and beyond can be found here.
