PROJECT SUMMARY

Wivey Link serves those without access to their own transport or public transport in over 26 rural parishes in particular young people, the immobile, elderly persons and young families. This application enabled Wivey Link to purchase a third vehicle which is easily accessible, low maintenance with the lowest carbon emissions.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Wivey Link Community Transport provides a vital link for those in rural isolation. Serving young old and all those in between, we provide transport for such diverse reasons as hospital, hair, dentists and doctors appointments, social visits, onward transport, day care and even dogs to kennels! Our Sunday Specials provide companionship along with a fun day out to places of interest.

Without our volunteer drivers there would be no Wivey Link. Their dedication has been recognised as they have this year won the West Country Regional Award for Voluntary Endeavour.

They now go forward to the National Finals in November (see picture): from left to right - drivers Graham Middleton, Robin Fenton, Carolyn Boucher and John Lawley and Chair of Wiveliscombe Area Partnership John Harris).

Wivey Link runs two people carriers with wheelchair access. In May this year we took delivery of a new car a Toyota Yaris. Chosen for low carbon emissions and very economical mpg. A number of funders including Rural Renaissance contributed to the cost of this car.

Having the third car has greatly increased the capacity and flexibility of the Wivey Link Service. It has also attracted drivers who were not so comfortable driving the larger people carriers. With the third car available we are able to meet the demand for short journeys in the area and are now gradually extending both our reach and operating times.

The new vehicle has greatly improved the prospect of sustainability for this community business.

www.wiveliscombe.com/the_wivey_link