Community transport funding saved after local concerns

Wiltshire Council has u-turned on plans to withdraw funding from community transport schemes following concerns over the impact to local residents.

In Wiltshire Council’s draft budget, it suggested funding for community transport schemes such as Link schemes could be axed.

Melksham and District Link, administered by Community First, supports elderly and disabled people who are unable to drive to and from medical appointments.

Last year, the scheme supported 530 residents with 46 volunteer drivers covering 73,722 miles and made 2,607 journeys to 107 destinations.

Trips ranged from local surgeries and community hospitals to district hospitals in Bath and Swindon, with a few journeys further afield to Bristol and Oxford.

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Council said, “Following concerns raised, the proposed withdrawal of community transport grants was revisited and funding has now been reallocated to allow grants to continue.”

Cllr Ian Thorn, Wiltshire Council Leader, said, “Allocating public money is both a privilege and a significant responsibility. When we published our draft proposals, we did so expecting – and welcoming – ongoing dialogue.

“Our message to the people of Wiltshire is that we have listened to you and we have heard you.”

Chairperson of Melksham and District Link, Liz Rowley, said, “Community First provides a vital central point of advice and help for our Link service. All Link schemes are run by volunteers who take on huge responsibility, so it is great to have the backup of a professional team, such as Community First to support us.

“The value of the Link schemes in Wiltshire cannot be underestimated and it would be very short-sighted to remove the relatively small amount of financial support to our lynchpin organisation.”

Pictured: Melksham Link volunteers celebrating 30 years in 2024