A PATIENT transport scheme has re-started in Wellington after suffering a shortage of drivers, but it is still looking for more volunteers.
The Welly Hopper was launched in 2019 with the help of a grant from the town council, but stopped during the Covid-19 lockdowns.
Efforts have been ongoing to resume the service since the pandemic, and the town council gave further funding to help start it up again.
But project chairman Erica Adams was thwarted by a shortage of volunteers willing to use their cars to collect patients and drive them to and from the town’s medical facilities.
Wellington has two GP surgeries, Luson, in Fore Street, and Wellington Medical Centre, in Mantle Street, as well as a community hospital in Bulford.
The Welly Hopper costs 80p per mile, with a reduced rate for those with a Somerset Council Bus Pass.
New patients can register with a one-off £1 fee, while those who previously registered will continue to be honoured.
Bookings can be made by calling the following numbers between 9 am and 1 pm: Monday 07704 682139, Wednesday 07704 682143, and Friday 07704 682139.
Volunteer drivers, who receive a mileage payment, are still needed for the Welly Hopper and anybody interested in helping can contact Ms Adams on 01823 669022.
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