Esher and Claygate Car Service
March 2025
CAR SERVICE COPES WITH BIG RISE IN MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS
A rush of medical appointments early this year highlighted the need for volunteer drivers to make sure every person without access to transport is able to attend for tests and treatment on time. The Esher and Claygate Car Service, while under pressure, still managed to cope with demand and drive everyone in need to their doctor, hospital, dental, physiotherapy or other appointment.
But even when demand is high, the task for each individual driver is not onerous: journey requests are emailed to the team of volunteers, enabling them to choose trips that fit their schedule. Most drivers take on one outing every two or three weeks – some more, some less.
The service makes a huge difference to those in need, and part of the reward for volunteering is that clients are hugely appreciative and interesting to talk to. To volunteer, or to inquire about using the car service, email ec.carservice@gmail.com, or visit its new website at https://www.esher-and-claygate-car-service.com/.
October 2024
CAR SERVICE NEEDS DRIVERS
The car service that drives people without access to transport to medical appointments is proving more popular than ever and the charity is appealing for more drivers to join its ranks.
The Esher and Claygate Car Service offers a flexible and enjoyable opportunity for anyone keen to make a real and instant difference to those in need. Drivers only need an occasional spare hour or so—which could be as little as once a month—and can choose which appointments they drive clients to, making it flexible and far from onerous. And the clients are hugely appreciative. To volunteer, email ec.carservice@gmail.com. Or visit https://www.esherandclaygatecarservice.com/.
March 2024
CAR SERVICE ALWAYS WELCOMES NEW VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
A fulfilling way of contributing to the Claygate community is to volunteer as a driver for the Esher and Claygate Car Service. This charitable group drives people without access to transport to medical appointments. It's a well-used and popular service and new volunteer drivers are always welcome, as are new clients should anyone find themselves in need.
It is a rewarding experience for all. One client said: “The Esher and Claygate Car Service is a godsend for getting to the doctors. I think the drivers are delightful, they are all sociable and helpful and we have lovely conversations.” And one driver added: “The clients are interesting and love chatting, and all are grateful. It is one of the most rewarding things I've done in years.”
All drivers need is a clean licence, a car and a little free time: drivers choose which trips they take, making it flexible and easy to fit into the day. The car service is back up and running as normal but even during lockdowns it was able to operate a service, partly thanks to a grant for materials from the Parish Council. To volunteer, email ec.carservice@gmail.com or visit www.esherandclaygatecarservice.com.
