OPTIO DRIVERS
ISLE of Wight based voluntary car service, Optio, is in need of new volunteers.
Across the Island, Optio has a network of volunteer drivers who give their time freely, using their own cars to provide a door to door service. Passengers are taken to and from medical appointments, shopping, or to much needed social activities, and the service has existed for more than 20 years, providing essential transportation for members who are unable to access public transport.
A spokesperson for Optio said, “We have a team of over 40 drivers across the Island who undertake trips for people who live in their local areas. We have new members joining the scheme every week, but with over 350 members across the Island, we urgently need more drivers to meet all the requests we have for trips.”
“Volunteering as an Optio driver is a great way of helping people in the local community, and our drivers get a great deal of satisfaction working in this role.”
Optio always try to find a driver who lives near the member requesting a trip to cut down on driving distances, and currently need drivers in all areas of the Island except Cowes and East Cowes. Volunteers can drive as little or as much as they wish each week to fit with their existing commitments, and are reimbursed at a rate of 45p per mile from their home for the whole journey until they return home.
Anyone with a valid driving licence that is fit to drive can contact Optio on 01983 522226.
July 2019