Volunteer Car Driver

The Voluntary Car Service (VCS) is designed to assist the existing Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPTS) by offering practical and convenient transport for patients who can walk, but need transportation to and from their homes, hospitals, clinics, day hospitals and community units and other health premises.

The purpose of the journey may cover a variety of activities, e.g., outpatients, treatment, and hospital admission, discharge, and transfer.

Availability and allocation of work:

Volunteer Drivers are asked to nominate days and times when they will be available for duty. Drivers are at liberty to change their availability but are requested to give the Operations Team at least two working days' notice of these changes. However, you should be aware that notification of availability is not a guarantee of work.

Suitability and Vehicle Criteria:

Volunteer Drivers must hold a full driving licence appropriate for the type of vehicle being driven and upon which there must be no more than three penalty points.

Applicants will need to be contactable by mobile telephone and own or provide a 4-door vehicle not more than 7 years old in a clean and suitable condition for the carriage of patients.

An original copy of the vehicles current valid MOT certificate, if required, insurance certificate, driving licence and breakdown cover must be shown and inspected and produced 6 monthly. It is also important that all Volunteer Drivers notify their insurance company of the type of work being undertaken by them.

Personal Criteria:

Volunteer Drivers are often required to assist patients into and out of the vehicle. There may also be suitcases, walking aids and personal belongings to be carried for patients. It is, therefore, essential that Volunteer Drivers enjoy good general health and be physically fit.

Expense claims

Reimbursement for mileage incurred is currently paid at 45 pence per mile (dependant on fuel costs) and is calculated from home to home via the shortest route unless prior agreement has been reached with the Operations Team. All mileage, tolls and necessary parking costs will be reimbursed however we do not pay waiting time. Drivers must complete the daily work sheet, which will be provided.