Volunteer Drivers Help Keep Patients Connected to Vital Care this Winter
The pressures facing the NHS over winter are well-documented. However, our health system in Norfolk is supported of volunteers who put their time, energy and passion to good use supporting patients in so many ways.
Throughout the year, thousands of patients across Norfolk need to attend vital non-emergency medical appointments, including regular dialysis, outpatient clinics and follow-up care. Thanks to around 50 dedicated volunteer non-emergency patient transport drivers, supported by Voluntary Norfolk, many of those journeys happen safely, reliably and with a friendly face, improving the patient experience.
These volunteer drivers travel across Norfolk – and beyond – ensuring patients can get to appointments. In doing so, they can also save the NHS money on taxi fares and, crucially, help reduce pressure on ambulance services.
What do the volunteer drivers offer?
For the people using the service, the support goes far beyond transport. Regular appointments can be tiring, stressful and isolating, particularly during winter. Having a familiar driver who takes the time to chat, check in and offer reassurance can make a real difference.
Ian Whiting, Volunteer Driver Coordinator at Voluntary Norfolk, said:
“Christmas and bad weather don’t pause illnesses, and many of the people we support still need to attend appointments several times a week. Our volunteer drivers understand that and step up time and again. We know that friendships grow between drivers and passengers – that human connection is just as important as getting them from A to B.”
With winter pressures continuing across the health system, the need for volunteer drivers remains as strong as ever. Voluntary Norfolk is keen to hear from people who enjoy driving, want to give back to their community, and are interested in forming meaningful connections with the local people they support.
“If you enjoy being behind the wheel and want to do something that really matters, this role is incredibly rewarding,” added Ian. “You’re helping someone access essential care and making their day a little brighter – especially at this time of year.”
Anyone interested in becoming a non-emergency patient transport volunteer driver is encouraged to contact Ian Whiting (ian.whiting@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk) at Voluntary Norfolk to find out more. Otherwise click here to read more.
