Values and Attitudes

You must have a willingness to do the job and a basic sensitivity to theneeds and aspirations of people who use the services e.g. young people, children, older people, people who are disabled.

Experience, knowledge and skills

Some skills will be essential (e.g. driving competence). Experience in a similar setting is also an obvious advantage.

Education and training

You do not need any qualifications to be a good driver but a willingness to develop your skills is useful. There are essential skills for volunteer minibus drivers as you will have to comply with the statutory requirements under driver licensing regulations.

We can offer training for volunteers interested in developing their skills and thistraining is accredited by the Community Transport Association. A comprehensive range of Community Transport and management training courses are available from the Community Transport Association to assist in the personal development of volunteer drivers and passenger assistants.

Recognition for Volunteers

We aim to provide opportunities to learn new skills, enhance status and fulfil personal goals. You can gain satisfaction from knowing that you are appreciated for your time and efforts. Appropriate training and support is given to:

• Give your passengers the comfort and knowledge that they are in safe, competent hands.
• Reduce the risk of accidents by enhancing on-road skills, anticipation and awareness.
• Enhance passenger safety, including the use of specialist equipment.
• Result in lower running and maintenance costs.

Expenses Payments

It is good practice for organisations to reimburse genuine out-of-pocket expenses incurred by their volunteers. Being in receipt of benefits need not be a barrier to working as a volunteer in the Community Transport sector.