THE CHAIRMAN of Worcestershire County Council has hailed Wyre Forest Community Transport as a ‘lifeline’ for hundreds of people across the district.
Coun Louis Stephen visited the charity’s Green Street base in Kidderminster ahead of the launch of Community Transport Week.
There, he met and chatted with volunteer drivers, passengers and staff.
The theme for this year’s celebrations is ‘More Than a Minibus’, showcasing how community transport is integral to local lives.
During the visit, Coun Stephen heard how the services went beyond transportation, helping individuals stay independent, connected and empowered.
He chatted with 80-year-old wheelchair user David Chatterton.
Mr Chatterton told him: “Without this service I would be housebound and unable to go to the Simply Limitless activities, which I enjoy four days a week.”
Coun Stephen said: “Wyre Forest Community Transport provides essential services that are more than just transport, they are a lifeline for hundreds of people across the district.
“It was an eye-opening experience to visit the charity and see the invaluable work they do day in and day out.
“Their services go far beyond simply driving a minibus or car – they provide people with the opportunity to live independently, engage in their communities, and access essential services.
“Community Transport Week is the perfect time to recognise and celebrate the vital role these services play.
“I’m proud to stand behind this team and advocate for continued support to ensure they can carry on their essential work for years to come.”
The trustees’ chairman Glen Collins thanked Coun Stephen for the county council’s annual funding contribution towards the cost of the services.
He said: “We rely on a variety of grants and donations and the county council funding is crucial to our survival.
“We were thrilled to welcome Coun Stephen and for him to hear how invaluable our services are to people with disabilities and the elderly who can’t access their own or public transport.
“We enable them to attend essential medical appointments and social activities, to visit the shops, friends and relatives and to go on outings, combating loneliness and isolation.”
Visit the website at ctwyre.org.uk for more on Wyre Forest Community Transport and volunteering as a minibus or car driver.
