Volunteers at Melksham and District Link supported 530 residents last year, providing transport to medical appointments across the region.
The charity’s figures show its 46 volunteer drivers covered 73,722 miles and made 2,607 journeys, taking 530 clients 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.
Chairperson Liz Rowley said district hospitals accounted for over half of all drives for the first time, up 13% on 2024, while trips to community hospitals increased by 47%. “We pride ourselves on operating solely on client donations,” she said. “We do not receive funding or grants, and their generosity allows the scheme to continue making a difference in Melksham.”
Melksham Link offers transport to anyone without other means of getting to appointments. Volunteer drivers use their own vehicles, are reimbursed for mileage, and stay with clients before returning them home.
Liz Rowley said the charity currently has 53 volunteers but is always looking for more. “Some days are extremely busy and demand can exceed driver availability. We also need coordinators to arrange journeys. Anyone can call for an informal chat about how they could help.”
Regular client Pat Webb said, “I just don’t know what I would do without Link. I have regular appointments at my doctors and frequent visits to the RUH, and I simply couldn’t get there without the friendly and reliable service Link provides. It is a wonderful organisation.”
The service’s phone lines are open 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday. You can leave a voicemail or send a text to 07979 129052 and Link will get in touch.
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