Grimsby charity vows to keep helping community as it moves into a new home

A charity helping elderly and disabled people get to where they need to have vowed to continue after moving offices.

Dial A Ride have been involved in the community for numerous years, from helping people with their shopping to simply helping them get out the house.

Now, the team are moving to Europarc Innovation Centre but have vowed to continue their important work.

For Co-Ordinator Ken Pennock, it’s a step in the right direction to help the charity and its services running smoothly.

Image Caption: Europarc Innovation Centre

He said: “We’re thrilled to be in our new home and can’t wait to carry on the brilliant work our team and drivers have been doing for many years. Next year will be our 30^th anniversary and I’m really proud to see just how much we’ve grown over the decades.”

“I’ve been working with the charity for 12 years now, six years as a voluntary driver and six years as a coordinator, and I’ve enjoyed it all.  It’s extremely rewarding to be working for a cause that helps facilitate transport for those in need.  

“We currently have a driver who is 84 and is working hard to help maintain our service to the community, along with the other drivers.  We hope to get more voluntary drivers so we can accept new registrations and ensure everyone gets the journey they need.”

What do you need to be a voluntary driver?

If you are 25 or above and hold a normal category B driving license, then you can be a voluntary driver.

The Dial a Ride service operates 365 days from 8am until 4pm and you can choose the hours you would like to do between those times. The role is completely flexible, and the team are happy to work with your availability, with no minimum requirement.  It would however be helpful if drivers are able commit to at least one day each week.  You may also request to have set days, which may allow you to become familiar with one, specific route.

Benefits include training, how the service operates, wheelchair operations, vehicle maintenance, health and safety and the feeling of doing good for the community.

How to apply?

Call Dial A Ride on 01472 269199 or email: [email protected] to register your interest.  Alternatively, drop into Innovation Centre, Innovation Way, Healing Grimsby DN37 9TT and ask for Ken or Marianne.

What is Dial a Ride?

Dial A Ride is a community run service providing accessible transport for people who find it difficult to use public transport due to illness or disability.

A bus pass is required for all passengers using the service.

For more information on Dial a Ride, please visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/streets-travel-and-parking/travel-and-public-transport/dial-a-ride/

The team are also asking for donations of office furniture for their new home. If you can help, please contact them by emailing [email protected]