It’s National Volunteer Week – a time to celebrate the incredible impact of volunteers across the country. But with 15 million people* giving their time to over 166,000 organisations, you could argue that every week is volunteer week.
Volunteers are the backbone of so many parts of society – from hospitals and charities to local groups and community organisations. They’re the reason many of us can do more than we ever thought possible. Like a good friend or your mum cheering you on, they quietly help carry the load, expecting nothing in return.
Yes, volunteers offer time and practical skills. But what truly stands out is their goodwill, passion, and drive to make things better. That’s the heart of it all – community.
At Westway CT, our volunteer drivers are a perfect example of this spirit in action, making more community transport possible.
John, 74, has been volunteering with us for 20 years. He says:
“Doing this has made me appreciate how lucky I’ve been in life, and how less lucky many others are. I’m damn lucky – and it’s only right to put a bit back. The more you put in, the more you get out. We need more volunteers. Try it – you might enjoy it. It’s very rewarding.”
Our drivers help people get to GP appointments, the shops, social events – and, more importantly, they help them retain independence. For many of our members, particularly older people with mobility challenges, public transport isn’t an option. Without our community car service – and the volunteers who make it possible – they’d be stuck indoors, isolated.
Charles, a semi-retired freelancer who joined us 6 months ago, told us:
“I lived and worked abroad for most of my life – it feels good to help at home now. I have the capacity and time, and I think we should all do our bit if we can.”
Volunteering can also take you places you didn’t expect. Tim, a retired lawyer started in 2020. Five years later, he’s now a trustee and steps up to drive whenever there is a need, from the shopper bus and the volunteer car scheme, to trips further afield now that he is MiDAS trained. He shared:
“‘I take a young man with cerebral palsy who is a wheelchair user, to an activity centre three times a week, this gives respite to his mum, it’s important for both of them, I feel that he has a vital need for transport, and I try to make myself available to help here.”
We often have more demand for services than volunteer drivers to meet it. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, consider this your sign. As Charles puts it:
“We all feel better when we give of ourselves. If you’re thinking about volunteering – give it a go. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
If you have some time to spare, and can help out as a driver with us for our volunteer car service please get in touch, we’d love to hear from you! Call us or email here
*Source: Community Life Survey 2023/24
