Volunteering
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Have you always fancied being a bus driver but never had the chance?
Well, here’s your opportunity – as a volunteer with Preston Community Transport.
What do we do?
Preston Community Transport provides a personal transport service to people who have mobility problems and have difficulty using public transport. We also help groups such as scouts and guides and those with disabilities.
What qualifications and experience would I need?
Previous experience of driving a minibus is not necessary as full training will be given – more important is that you have the right personal qualities of being:
- Patient and sensitive to the needs of others
- Honest and trustworthy- all applicants must agree to a police Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check.
- Reliable and punctual
- Tolerant and non-judgemental and able to keep confidentiality
- Fit to assist clients with mobility problems.
You must, however, be between 21 and 65 preferably with a driving licence that allows you to drive minibuses (Category D1). We will train you to gain a nationally-recognised minibus qualification.
We will consider drivers who do not have the D1 category on their licence (this is usually for anyone who took their test after 1996) and provide training for you to pass the driving test for this category.
What’s my commitment?
Most of the regular day-time services are carried out by paid staff – it is mainly for the evening sessions when minibuses are on loan to groups that we need volunteer drivers. But whatever time you are able to spare, we want to hear from you.
The training we provide represents a considerable investment and will lead to a qualification that will help if you are thinking of paid work in public transport. In return we do ask for a reasonable commitment from you in terms of the hours you put back in.
Will voluntary work affect my pension or benefits?
No, but you are advised to let the Benefits Office know that you are undertaking unpaid voluntary work.
You can claim the cost of out of pocket expenses such as travel and provided what you claim is the same as what it cost you, your pension/benefits will not be affected.
What if I can’t drive but would still like to help ?
There are other voluntary roles that we need help with and we are always pleased to hear from people who can offer alternative skills such as:
- Passenger assistants/ escorts
- Fundraisers
- Admin support.
What about paid work?
When we have any vacancies for paid staff we will normally advertise them and post the details on this website.
Want to know more?
Telephone