Downland Volunteer Group

Downland Volunteer Group

We provide car transport for the elderly or infirm, or anyone in need, to Hospitals, Surgeries, Clinics, Dentists, Opticians etc

We also make regular shopping trips using the Handybus. The Handybus can also be booked for other community group outings, including at weekends. For more information see the contact details opposite or visit the website

Who we are 

We were formed in 1985 and were situated in very Spartan conditions in a scout hut in Compton, Berkshire. Today we have a small office located in Compton Surgery. We are a registered charity and in October 2005 we became a Company Limited by Guarantee.

What we do

We provide transport for persons in the Downland areas of West Berkshire who are elderly, sick or disabled or who are otherwise in need of help. We take people to Hospitals, Doctors' Surgeries, Dentists, Opticians, monthly Lunch Club or anywhere else that may be appropriate.

How Can I Use Your Services

You can contact our office Monday-Friday between the hours of 9.30-11am. Please give us as much notice as possible for us to arrange suitable transport for you.

How Can I Pay

We do not make a charge for our services but we do ask that you make a contribution towards our drivers' mileage costs. The level of contribution is different depending on the length of journey made. You can pay by cash, cheque, or travel tokens issued by West Berks Council. 

Volunteers

We operate solely by using volunteers who give of their time freely and selflessly. Volunteers are always needed for the following:

  • Manning the office during opening hours. You should have a pleasant telephone manner and be computer literate, although full training will be given. It is not as onerous as it sounds and any help would be greatly appreciated.
  • Drivers to take clients to doctors' surgeries etc. Please see separate web page with details of volunteer driving.
  • Handybus drivers