RYEDALE Community Transport (RCT) is looking for volunteers to support its car share scheme following an increase in demand.

The charity, which is based in Norton, currently has 68 volunteer drivers and supports 825 members across Ryedale with the demand in transport rising more than 25 per cent in the last year.

The service is used to provide transport to hospital, GP appointments, to do the weekly shop or to attend a social event.

Ken Gill, the operations manager at RCT, said the spike in demand was due to several factors, including the recent review of the eligibility criteria for people qualifying for patient transport.

“This is an essential service for people who have difficulty accessing transport to get to essential appointments at GP surgeries, hospital appointments, social activities or shopping,” he said.

“Demand for transport is now outstripping the supply of volunteers and we are desperate for more help.”

Mr Gill said to some people a trip out once a week may be the only time they leave their home and get a change of scenery or get chance to talk to someone.

“The volunteer drivers provide great support to the people using the transport,” he said.

“We provide journeys to thousands of Ryedale residents each year some of whom would be unable to get out and meet people at all resulting in loneliness and isolation.

“I would encourage anyone who is willing to volunteer to get involved, you will be very welcome and our team will answer any questions that prospective volunteer have.

“Our car drivers help get people out and about again – and they really do appreciate our volunteers’ efforts. No previous experience is necessary to become a volunteer driver.

“There is a simple induction course and never any pressure to accept a trip.

“You needn’t be committed to a regular schedule and can drive your own car - or one of our mini-buses - and receive a 45p per mile tax-free mileage allowance.

Volunteers also need to hold a full driving licence.

Ryedale Community Transport is based at unit 2 Minster Court, Hugden Way, Norton.

If you would like to be involved as a driver, or helper, phone 01653 699059 or go to ryedalect.org