David Harris explains why he’s never looked back since volunteering as a driver for the Yorkshire Ambulance Service.
For anyone who enjoys driving, meeting new people, and with a bit of spare time on their hands, joining the Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) as a volunteer car driver offers an opportunity to use their skills to help save lives.
I first became a volunteer for YAS three years ago so I could transport patients between their homes and the hospitals. The fleet garage checked my car over before I first started and continues to do so every year just to ensure it is fit for purpose.
I completed a short driving assessment before starting and attended a first aid and lifesaving course with a refresher periodically.
With my uniform and all the necessary equipment readily supplied to do the service, YAS provide me with patient runs whenever I tell them I’m available and give me a mileage allowance towards the cost of fuel.
I have now covered quite a few miles assisting patients to and from hospital, many of whom are receiving radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or renal dialysis. They are sincerely grateful for the service we offer, and many could not make their hospital appointments without it.
Whether you can get involved once a month or several times a week, there is no minimum amount of time required to be a volunteer. There are volunteers from across the community giving their time for a variety of reasons, and you don’t need any previous experience but to just be caring, friendly, and willing to help.
To get in touch and find out more, visit Yas.nhs.uk or email yas.VCSrecruitment@nhs.
net