Voluntary car drivers

Basic requirements

  • Drivers must be aged 69 or under.
  • Not be engaged in any full-time employment.
  • Be available at least two days per week (more if possible).
  • Be physically fit.
  • Be a telephone subscriber.
  • Have a four door car in sound clean condition.
  • Be covered by full comprehensive insurance.
  • Pass a driving assessment by a qualified driving instructor.
  • Declare all driving convictions.

For further information please contact the Control Team Leader on 01803 656796.

Payment

Drivers are not paid for their services, but are paid monthly in arrears for their out-of-pocket expenses and mileage allowance, both of which have to be claimed on a claim form. Mileage is reviewed periodically.

Insurance

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust does not accept any responsibility or liability for damage or injury arising from accidents and it is important that drivers enrolled in the service ensure that the car is covered by full comprehensive insurance, and that they are authorised to use the car for conveyance of patients. Please check with your insurance company.

Standard of driving and mechanical efficiency of the car

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust relies on the co-operation of enrolled owner drivers to ensure that patients are conveyed to and from treatment centres as efficiently and as comfortably as possible. Drivers are expected to maintain a high standard of mechanical efficiency in all cars registered in the service.

Conveyance of patients and escorts

Journeys are arranged, as far as convenient to patient and driver, to convey more than one patient per car to save unnecessary duplication of mileage.

Escorts may only be conveyed when booked in advance. No other passenger should travel as any spare seating may be needed for additional patients on the return journey. Animals must not be carried.

Care of patients conveyed by car service

This service is for patients who are unable to travel by public transport and have to attend hospital or clinic for treatment. Drivers must be considerate to patients at all times, offering assistance. The sympathetic handling of patients is our prime responsibility.

Charging

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust charges patients for the use of the car service, this is collected by the voluntary car driver on behalf of the Trust. Certain patients are entitled to free transport, please see the charging rates.

Smoking

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust have adopted a no smoking policy. Consequently smoking is NOT permitted in the car whilst patients are being carried.

Safety of patients

Seat belts must be worn by the driver and in most instances by all passengers.