31/10/2020
Navigating your local area can sometimes present challenges, especially for those who find traditional public transport difficult to access or are seeking a more personal and supportive travel experience. Fortunately, Lichfield and Burntwood are served by a number of dedicated community transport providers, offering vital services to residents who may have mobility issues, disabilities, or simply require assistance with essential journeys. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available options, helping you find the most suitable service to meet your needs and ensure you can continue to participate fully in community life.
Understanding Community Transport
Community transport is a broad term encompassing services that provide accessible and affordable transportation for people who cannot use or have limited access to conventional public transport. These services are often run by charities, voluntary organisations, or social enterprises, and they play a crucial role in combating social isolation and ensuring independence for many individuals. Whether you need a ride to a medical appointment, a shopping trip, a social event, or any other essential journey, there's likely a community transport service in Lichfield and Burntwood that can help.
Key Providers in Lichfield & Burntwood
Several organisations are committed to providing essential transport solutions in the Lichfield and Burntwood areas. Each offers unique services, catering to different requirements. Let's explore some of the most prominent:
Driving Miss Daisy Lichfield
Driving Miss Daisy is a specialist service focusing on providing accessible transport and companionship for individuals with disabilities. They understand that getting around can be a significant hurdle, and their mission is to make it easier and more enjoyable. Their fleet includes adapted vehicles, specifically equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Beyond just transportation, they also offer valuable companionship and support, assisting clients to and from appointments and making sure they feel secure and well-cared for throughout their outing. This holistic approach makes them an excellent choice for those who value personal attention and support.
Contact Information:
- Telephone: 07742 906526
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Accessible Transport & Companionship - Driving Miss Daisy Lichfield
Community Link Stafford
While based in Stafford, Community Link often serves surrounding areas, including Lichfield and Burntwood, particularly for those who might require transport to appointments or services in neighbouring towns. They are a well-established community transport provider, focusing on making local travel more accessible for everyone. Their services are designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs of the community, often relying on a dedicated team of volunteer drivers.
Contact Information:
- Contact Person: Graham Wright
- Telephone: 01785 252050
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Home - Community Link Stafford - Community Transport
Kendall and Wall
Kendall and Wall are dedicated to helping solve everyday challenges, and accessible transport is a significant part of their mission. They provide a range of services aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals who face difficulties with independent travel. Their approach is often about empowering people to maintain their independence and social connections by providing reliable and friendly transportation. They are known for their commitment to customer care and ensuring that journeys are as stress-free as possible.
Contact Information:
- Contact Person: Mike Wall
- Telephone: 01543 897131
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Kendall & Wall | Helping to Solve Everyday Challenges (kendallandwall.org)
Tamworth Community Transport
Operating out of Tamworth, this service is another valuable resource for residents of Lichfield and Burntwood, particularly if you need to travel towards Tamworth or if they extend their service area. They provide essential transport services for a variety of needs, aiming to connect people with essential appointments and activities. Their presence in the region underscores the collaborative nature of community transport, with different providers often working together to ensure wider coverage.
Contact Information:
- Telephone: 01827 66632
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: Office 1, 1st Floor, 16 Victoria Road, Tamworth B79 7HL
Voluntary Transport for the Disabled
As the name suggests, this service specifically targets individuals with disabilities, offering a valuable network of volunteer drivers. Volunteer-led transport schemes are often characterised by their personal touch and flexibility. Drivers are typically local residents who volunteer their time and use of their own vehicles, often equipped with necessary adaptations. This model fosters a strong sense of community and provides a friendly, familiar face for passengers.
Contact Information:
- Contact Person: Tony Harper
- Telephone: 01543 686321
Walsall Community Transport
Similar to Community Link Stafford, Walsall Community Transport may extend its services or be a viable option for residents in the southern parts of Lichfield and Burntwood, or for journeys into Walsall. They are a significant provider in their area, offering various transport solutions that cater to diverse needs, including those of elderly residents and people with disabilities.
Contact Information:
- Contact Person: Debbie Chell
- Telephone: 01922 685555
- Email: [email protected]
Lichfield and District Voluntary Car Scheme
This scheme is specifically tailored for the Lichfield and Burntwood areas, providing transport for individuals who have no other means of making essential journeys. This often means that the service is a lifeline for many, ensuring they can attend vital appointments and access necessary services. The scheme relies on the goodwill of volunteer drivers who use their own cars to help people in their community. It's a fantastic example of local people helping each other, ensuring that no one is left behind due to a lack of transport.
Contact Information:
- For Lichfield: 01543 303023
- For Burntwood: 01543 303025
Choosing the Right Service
When selecting a community transport service, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Description | Key Questions to Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Journey | Is the service for medical appointments, social outings, shopping, or general travel? | Do they cover the type of journey you need? |
| Accessibility Needs | Do you require wheelchair access, space for a mobility scooter, or assistance with boarding? | Do they have adapted vehicles? Can they provide assistance? |
| Service Area | Does the provider cover your specific location in Lichfield or Burntwood, and your destination? | Confirm their operational area. |
| Cost | What are the charges per journey or per mile? Are there any membership fees? | Understand the pricing structure upfront. |
| Booking Procedure | How far in advance do you need to book? What is the booking process? | Enquire about booking lead times and methods. |
| Companionship/Support | Do you require additional support or companionship during the journey? | Does the service offer this as part of their offering? |
| Volunteer Driver Schemes | Are you comfortable travelling with a volunteer driver? | Understand the nature of the drivers and any vetting processes. |
How to Book Your Transport
Booking is typically straightforward. For most services, you will need to contact them directly via the telephone number or email provided. It's advisable to have the following information ready when you call:
- Your full name and address.
- The date and time of your required journey.
- Your destination.
- Any specific requirements, such as needing an adapted vehicle or assistance.
- A contact telephone number.
It's often recommended to book as far in advance as possible, especially for specialist services or during peak times, to ensure availability. Some services may require registration before you can book your first journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are these services free?
A1: Most community transport services operate on a not-for-profit basis and charge a fee, though it is usually significantly lower than standard taxi fares. These fees help to cover operational costs, such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. The exact pricing varies between providers, so it’s best to enquire directly.
Q2: Can I book a return journey?
A2: Yes, you can typically book a return journey at the same time as your outward journey. It's important to confirm the pick-up time for your return trip when you make your initial booking.
Q3: Do I need to be registered with a specific condition to use these services?
A3: While some services, like Driving Miss Daisy, specialise in transport for people with disabilities, others, such as voluntary car schemes, are available for anyone who needs to make essential journeys and has no other means of transport. Eligibility criteria can vary, so check with the specific provider.
Q4: What if I need to cancel my journey?
A4: Most providers have a cancellation policy. It's always best to give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel or change your booking to allow them to reallocate the vehicle or driver.
Q5: Are the vehicles accessible for wheelchairs?
A5: Several providers, including Driving Miss Daisy, offer adapted vehicles for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. It is crucial to mention your accessibility needs when booking to ensure the correct vehicle is allocated.
Conclusion
Community transport services are an indispensable part of the social infrastructure in Lichfield and Burntwood. They provide not just a means of getting from A to B, but also a connection to the wider community, fostering independence and well-being. By understanding the options available and how to access them, residents can ensure they continue to lead active and fulfilling lives. Remember to contact the providers directly to discuss your specific needs and to make a booking. Your mobility and independence are important, and these services are here to support you.
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