Stephen Key became a volunteer car driver for EMAS seven years ago because he wanted to give back to the NHS. Now he honestly believes he has the best job in the world.
The 58-year-old from Codnor actually worked as an internal auditor for the NHS for 26 years but had little contact with patients.
Therefore, when Stephen retired, he knew he wanted to meet people and help them face to face – and soon discovered the Volunteer Car Service.
The volunteer scheme is part of our Patient Transport Services (PTS) and provides an invaluable service to the community for patients who would otherwise be unable to get to their appointments.
Stephen said he loves knowing that he has made a tangible difference to people’s lives.
He said: “Knowing that you’ve helped people who are quite ill, get to and from hospital comfortably with as little stress as possible is the best part of the job
“Chatting to them tends to build up a bit of a rapport and take away a little of the worry going to hospital.
“You also get to drive through some of the best countryside in the British Isles. It really is the best job in the world.”
Stephen explained that he also enjoys the fact that each day is so different. He receives his list of patients for the day on his personal device, which will also tell him their name, address and time of their appointment.
Volunteers receive full training, uniform and equipment, mileage for using their own car and can work the hours that suit them.
We are currently looking for volunteer car drivers. For more information please call 0300 300 34 34 or email pts.