Volunteering Matters is celebrating the successful completion of a one-year pilot of the Stockton-on-Tees Volunteer Driver Service. Since its launch in March 2024, the project has gone from strength to strength – thanks to the generosity, commitment and community spirit of local volunteers and funders. 

Over the past 12 months, the project has engaged more than 18 dedicated volunteer drivers who together have completed over 1,200 journeys, supporting more than 150 local residents. The service plays a vital role in helping people who need additional support to attend hospital or medical appointments, healthcare services, and social activities such as lunch clubs – supporting individuals to stay connected, independent and well. 

Funded by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Karbon Homes, Billingham Town Council, Tees Valley Foundation and The Ballinger Charitable Trust, the project has now secured a further 12 months of funding, ensuring continued support for those who need it most. 

Nigel Jessop, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Volunteering Matters said: 

“We’re incredibly proud of what the Stockton-on-Tees Volunteer Driver Service has achieved in its first year – and we want to say a heartfelt thank you to the local community for making it such a success. As we look ahead to another impactful year, we’re inviting more local residents to get involved – whether as Volunteer Drivers or as people who could benefit from the service.”  
 
Volunteer Driver, Barbara, said: 
 
“Since retiring I have had a few jobs and volunteered at various times with different organisations, but this one with Volunteering Matters has been the most rewarding.  As I Volunteer Driver I have met so many interesting people from all walks of life and have been overwhelmed with how grateful everyone is for this service. Helping people, especially those who are older or isolate, not only to attend vital medical appointments but also to socialise and attend stimulating activities is so important. I have found it so rewarding.”

Notes for editor

• Volunteering Matters bring people together to overcome adversity, tackle isolation, improve physical and mental health, develop skills and ensure young people can lead change. What makes us unique is our approach to developing programmes in local areas. Our volunteering programmes are designed by communities, for communities, as they have the power, local knowledge and energy to improve themselves from within. At Volunteering Matters, we believe that stronger communities mean that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.   
• More information on the Stockton-on-Tees Driver Service can be found at https://dev.volunteeringmatters.org.uk/project/stockton-driver-service/  

• Volunteer drivers are fully trained and DBS checked, providing a door-to-door service that makes a tangible difference to people’s lives.  
• Photo: Volunteer driver John and passenger Gwen

ENDS 

For media inquiries, please contact: 
Andrew Henry 
0793 9838 666 
communications@volunteeringmatters.org.uk  
Volunteering Matters