Frome Community Drivers, the charity which transports local residents to medical appointments, will continue to operate in the town. The scheme was previously part of the charity Active and in Touch (A&IT), which ceased operating at the end of March. This prompted fears that the community drivers scheme may also fold.
Now, thanks to work undertaken behind the scenes over the last few months, Frome Community Drivers is a newly-constructed Community Interest Company (CIC). The non-profit making business will be run by the joint directorship of Gerry Copsey, who has lived in the area for 30 years and who owned a Caribbean Travel company, and Lisa Cooke, a well-known and respected business figure in Frome.
“This exciting development allays the fears expressed both verbally and through the columns in and recent letters to the Frome Times by many passengers and people who have expressed their regret about the potential loss of a much-needed and hugely-valued service,” explained volunteer Patricia Baker.
“The drivers, from a wide range of backgrounds, are also overjoyed to be able to continue their support of people who are isolated physically or geographically. The service focuses on providing transport to medical and any other essential appointments; these journeys are generally around Frome but the drivers will go as far afield as Bath, Bristol and Shepton Mallet, for example. The service is aimed at those who have difficulty using public transport for various reasons and passengers are charged a small fee to cover costs.”
“Currently, up to 100 journeys a week are facilitated by a team of committed and passionate drivers, “but as with all organisations that seek to support others, more volunteers are needed.
“The beauty of Frome Community Drivers, however, is there is a recognition of how busy many people are already, which may prevent them from volunteering, and so there is not a regular or prescribed timetable. Volunteer drivers can identify the days, times and journeys that fit into their availability and are able to do as few or as many journeys as they wish, arranging them around family, work and other social commitments. Drivers are reimbursed to cover their fuel costs.”
The service is available for residents of Frome and those having a BA11 postcode.
If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering, please make initial contact with Morag Stuart at Frome Community Drivers on 07596 591391. This is also the number to arrange for a journey you may wish to undertake. The line is open from 9.30am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday, with an out-of-hours message service.
“The continued operation and use of this invaluable service certainly is a shining beacon for Frome and the surrounding area,” says Patricia.