ORGANISERS behind the Shaftesbury Car Link Scheme have quashed rumours that the scheme will soon end or be handed to someone else.
However volunteers said they will be taking more holiday throughout the year – having previously only taken two weeks in the last six years – and the requested donation per mile will be increased by 10p to 60p per mile due to increasing costs.
Martin and June Hull have been running the community interest company for six years, helping over 3,500 people a year to their vital appointments – working out at around 300 a month.
They say that the past 12 months have been “increasingly difficult” as they have been trying to run the scheme while dealing with their own health concerns, but they want to put an end to rumours circulating in and around the town that the scheme could end or Martin and June pass the reins to someone else.
Due to the unavailability of funding and continuing increases in costs, from 1st October 2024 the requested donation per mile will have to be increased to 60p per mile (originally 50p) and anyone wishing to use the scheme will have to pay a £10 per year membership donation (£15 for a household).
Local to Shaftesbury donations of £5 remain unchanged.
The pair will also now take at least four weeks of holiday a year (excluding bank holidays) which means the phone lines will be closed periodically or on a reduced service.
A spokesperson for the scheme said: “Since the covid epidemic in 2020 people’s expectations and demands have not been as respectful as deserved given that everyone involved is a volunteer and Martin and June would kindly ask and remind people that all drivers and those running the scheme are here to help.
“If you are interested in becoming a volunteer driver (drivers use their own vehicles) or in helping with the telephone and booking system please get in touch.
“Martin, June and the team are looking forward to continuing to support the local community for the forthcoming years ahead.”
Individual donations are always welcome and can be made by cheque, by cash via a driver or by bank transfer. Further details can be provided on request – contact them on 07763 426664 or email shaftesburycarlink@gmail.com to find out more.
Visit the website at https://www.shaftesburycarlink.co.uk/
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