Volunteer Car Service

This bespoke, friendly door to door service is for people resident throughout the Borough of Swindon and surrounding areas and can be used for local or longer distance trips.  It is provided by volunteers driving their own cars.

When you reach your destination our volunteer drivers will offer assistance if required.  The driver will come into the Dr’s Surgery with you or go around the supermarket with you.  They are happy to help.

"To all the lovely drivers and staff who helped take me to my Wednesday Lunch Club each week before lockdown started.  I appreciate each of you..."

Who is it for?

This service is for people who find it difficult to travel on public transport due to mobility issues.

What can it be used for?

Health appointments, day centres, lunch clubs, shopping, visiting family & friends, hairdressers, attending funerals, educational courses, training, craft sessions, etc.

"I have had two trips to Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham and both have been excellent."

Where can you go?

This service operates door to door, throughout the borough of Swindon and surrounding villages.

You can use this service for local and long distance journeys (subject to driver availability).

When does it operate?

Monday to Friday 8:30am to17:30pm.  Out of hours and Saturday journeys by prior arrangement only.

Please Note: All journeys are subject to driver availability.

The service is not available on Sundays or Bank Holidays.

How do I book a journey?

Please phone us on 01793 521123. The booking line is covered Monday to Friday 10.30 am to 12.30pm.  There is an answer machine outside of these hours where you can leave a message and someone will call you back.  We will always do our best to meet your requirements, but our ability to do so depends upon the availability of our volunteer drivers, and the volume of requests that we receive.  Giving us as much notice as possible is always the best policy.  If in doubt give us a ring and ask if we can help.

Do I need to be registered?

Before you can use the Volunteer Car service, you need to register a few details with us.  All information will be treated as confidential. To do this phone the booking line on 01793 521123 or email transport@dialarideswindon.org.uk and we will send you an information pack containing a registration form which needs to be completed and returned to us.  All it will cost you is a stamp!

How much does it cost?

Journeys are charged at 45p per mile + any parking charges.  The distance is calculated from the driver’s home to your destination and back.  You are only being charged the expenses of the driver.

On this service, you are entering into a financial agreement directly with the driver not Swindon Dial A Ride.  Payment is made to the driver in cash.

If you need to cancel your journey, please contact us as soon as possible.  If the driver is not informed and incurs any expenses as a result, you will be expected to reimburse them at a rate of 45p per mile. 

Can I be accompanied?

Yes. You may bring a friend or relative with you.

"Thank you for making mine & mum’s lives easier on shopping days and allowing us to have additional trips out together."

What vehicles are used?

All drivers use their own cars and are fully insured. All drivers have undergone an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and carry identification.

"On behalf of the Trust may I say thank you for taking Mr W to hospital in Oxford. It has taken a weight off his mind knowing you are there.  His neighbour said the system was running so smoothly which is what you want when you are undergoing such treatment.  A big thank you to you all."

Register to be a Volunteer Car passenger by downloading the form here.

This service receives support from Wiltshire Community Foundation and the National Lottery Community Fund