What The Voluntary Network’s Community Transport Offers
Purpose & Coverage
The service is delivered by The Voluntary Network, a registered charity, to help people who would otherwise struggle to get around because public transport is not available or accessible. It operates in parts of Suffolk (including Forest Heath, St Edmundsbury), and neighbouring counties such as East Cambridgeshire, South Cambridgeshire, Essex and Norfolk.
Who it Helps
It supports people who are vulnerable, isolated, elderly, disabled or otherwise unable to use typical public transport. It enables them to get to medical appointments, shops, social visits, study, work, etc.
Types of Services Available
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Connecting Communities
This is a transport option for journeys when there is no regular bus service. It helps people travel for daily tasks like appointments, shopping, education, social visits. Sometimes it also links you to another transport mode (bus or train) where possible. In certain cases, full end-to-end journeys are possible. -
Community Car Service
Volunteer drivers use their own cars to take people further afield than the local area. This is especially for hospital or clinic visits etc. The usage charges are mileage-based. -
Dial a Ride / Door-to-Door Service
For those who find using public transport difficult (mobility issues, remote location), they provide “Dial a Ride” style or closely related services. This allows people to travel to local destinations, run errands, attend social activities.
Booking, Costs & Requirements
- Journeys are pre-booked. You need to call a booking line during certain hours.
- Volunteers are used as drivers; they must undergo training (e.g. MiDAS) and background checks (DBS).
- Fares vary by service, but there is typically a mileage-based charge (e.g. 54p per mile in some car volunteer services) for longer journeys. Some local services may also have a modest membership or registration fee.
Operating Hours
- The “Connecting Communities” service generally operates Monday to Saturday, from early morning until early evening.
- Booking lines generally open Monday–Friday during normal daytime hours.