Community Connections Transport is a volunteer-led community transport scheme, providing affordable journeys for disabled and vulnerable Lewisham residents who are unable to use public transport safely. It offers them a lifeline by enabling them to make regular trips to social groups and day centres, as well as for practical needs like attending hospital appointments, vaccination centres and trips to the supermarket.
The success of the project is wholly reliant on volunteers who are willing to transport residents in their own cars. In addition, the project is recruiting volunteer ‘Travel Companions’ who can escort vulnerable residents on bus or train journeys. This will be for individuals who, though physically able to use public transport, struggle to travel alone due to issues such as learning disabilities, visual impairment, or severe anxiety.
How can I refer myself or someone I support to Community Connections Transport?
We are happy to take referrals for one-off journeys. If you would like to book a journey for yourself or someone you support please phone our team on 0330 0583 464. Our line is open 9:30am-4pm Monday-Friday (*closed Thursday mornings when we run our weekly drop-in).
Return journeys within the borough of Lewisham cost £10 total. Where there is volunteer availability we can also provide journeys outside of Lewisham, though please note this will incur additional charges to cover expenses such as congestion charges.
Volunteer with us
Along with having a positive impact on a lonely or isolated person’s life, some of the many other benefits of volunteering include boosting your confidence, learning new skills, making friends locally, and accessing free training from Age UK and its partner organisations!
“It felt great to be helping vulnerable people in my area, plus the skills and confidence I gained helped me go on to find employment. I did quite a few training courses like First Aid, and most of all I became more aware of the different barriers residents face, such as having a physical disability, a visual impairment or dementia. It made it clear how indispensable the service is!’
~Mike, former volunteer
If you are aged 18+ and have the time, commitment and passion to support isolated members of your community then we’d love to hear from you! Please visit our Volunteer Page to read more or go straight to our Online Application Form. You can also get in touch with any questions by emailing our Transport Coordinator Angelie at transport@ageuklands.org.uk