The initiative has steadily grown since it was launched a year ago and St John Ambulance is calling for more people – particularly those aged 55 and older – to get involved.
Volunteers provide transport for people who cannot use public transport or their usual form of transport because of moderate disabilities or impairments.
Volunteer co-ordinator Aimee Riddell said the feedback from clients had been positive, with people saying it helped take the stress and pressure out of trying to organise transport to appointments.
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READ NOW“People are so relieved to find they can access transport without having to rely on family members and public transport,” she said.
“Many are happy and reassured knowing their elderly relatives are in safe hands when they access our services.”
Clarkson resident Bob Hudson, a retired sales representative, said he was proud to volunteer.
“You are working with people the same age so you share the same interests,” he said.
“It’s more than just about driving someone to an appointment, it is about giving them a familiar and friendly face and making the experience a good one for them.
“This is a great way to give back to the community – I haven’t done anything like this before where you get to regularly meet the same client.
“Some of the people we drive are in care and may feel some social isolation, so we can become quite close to them if we drive them regularly.”
Volunteers commit to about eight hours per fortnight and need to hold a valid driver’s licence.
For more information, call 1800 069 393 or visit www.stjohnchangelives.com.au