Is there a Link between Collingbourne Ducis, Collingbourne Kingston, Everleigh and the Chutes?
Yes, there certainly is… ‘The Link driving scheme’.
This is a voluntary good Neighbour Scheme which can offer help to everyone in the village.
A team of volunteers from the Chutes can drive you if you have no transport or are unable to drive yourself for any reason. Mostly we are used for medical appointments (doctors, outpatients, physio, dentists, collecting prescriptions, etc) though we can help with other small tasks.
There is no obligatory payment for our services though a donation towards the mileage costs we pay to our volunteers is welcome.
Do we have local coverage?
Link driving schemes cover most of Wiltshire. The villages of Collingbourne Ducis, Collingbourne Kingston, Everleigh and the Chutes have a Link scheme that was formed in 2004.
Your local scheme is a charity and is run entirely by volunteers, who give their time willingly to those residents who have difficulty in getting to the shops, medical or other appointments.
There might be other reasons why people use the Link such as: lack of available public transport, health, disability or mobility problems, cost factors and other personal reasons. Your local Link is a real solution to an important local issue and it helps to mobilise and engage our community.
How can I book?
Anyone wanting to use the service should call the local coordinator on 01264 850807, who will then endeavour to arrange for a volunteer to take you to your appointment or other venue. A donation is requested from passengers using Link volunteer cars. This donation supports the cost of running the service.
Can I volunteer?
Link needs more volunteer drivers. So, if you have your own transport and feel you could spare some time, even if it is only a couple of hours, please consider joining the team of volunteers, and support your local Link. Volunteer drivers can claim mileage.
If anyone would like to know more, contact Judy Wallbank on 01264 730679 (Chutes) or Tim Keighley (Collingbournes and Everleigh) on 07923 115780.