Charity Sue Ryder, which operates the Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading and the Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub Berkshire in Newbury, is on the lookout volunteer drivers

A charity is calling on Newbury residents to get behind the wheel to support people needing its care.

National healthcare charity Sue Ryder, which operates the Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading and the Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub Berkshire in Newbury, is on the lookout for kind-hearted residents who can volunteer a few hours a week as drivers.

The role will involve collecting individuals with life-limiting conditions from their homes and driving them to day services sessions or outpatient appointments.

Newbury resident Eddie Webb, 78, has been a Sue Ryder volunteer driver for the past seven years. He volunteers for a couple of hours once a week, picking up patients from their homes and taking them to Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub Berkshire – in the Rosemary Centre at West Berkshire Community Hospital – for a two-hour day services session.

Talking about what he likes most about the role, Mr Webb said: “I really enjoy getting to know the patients – they are so appreciative of our help and pleased to have a chat as we drive.

“Everybody has a story to tell, and you build up quite a friendship. It’s inspirational seeing how they cope during such a difficult time in their lives.

“Through doing this role I have also met lots of other Sue Ryder volunteers – it’s a great way to socialise and meet new people.”

Sue Ryder’s day services sessions in Reading and Newbury not only provide social opportunities for patients, but also valuable respite for carers.

Amanda Dean, volunteer coordinator, said: “We are so grateful to all our volunteers who donate their time to drive our patients to day service sessions or appointments.

“However, we need more drivers to ensure that we can support the increasing number of people that we care for. That is why we are asking those who can, to consider joining our volunteer team.

“Without this transport service, some patients would be isolated at home and unable to access our specialist services and support.”

Volunteer drivers must have their own vehicle and a valid clean driving license. Full training will be provided and fuel expenses will be covered by Sue Ryder.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer driver email Amanda Dean at amanda.dean@sueryder.org or call 07812 746755.

“The role is very flexible, and people can commit to as much or as little time as they want,” added Mr Webb. “If you enjoy driving, speaking to people and have a bit of time during the week that you’d like to give to a great local charity, then please get in touch.”