Rob Barker has been a volunteer car driver with the Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service of EMAS for seven years, since taking early retirement as a Business Manager in a large secondary school in Derbyshire.
"I was always clear that I wanted to do volunteering when I retired. After researching different opportunities, I came across a link to EMAS and its Voluntary Car Service. When I read the duties, I knew it was just what I was looking for. I could choose my own days and times, but most of all I would be providing direct help to people who need the service from us."
"I’ve enjoyed every day I’ve been on duty. It is so rewarding. You will do so much more than providing transport. You will provide reassurance, support and comfort. Patients can be anxious about their appointments and just by chatting you’re helping them calm down a bit and relieve any anxiety."
"Unfortunately, I’ve not been able to drive for the past few weeks and have missed driving very much and can’t wait until I’m able to get back to it."
"If you’re thinking about volunteering then I can heartily recommend non-emergency patient transport for EMAS."
Want to be part of the team? We’re now recruiting volunteer car drivers for Derbyshire, Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire to support Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service. More details can be found on EMAS website.