One of Bassetlaw Action Centre’s most popular services is ‘motoring’ ahead thanks to a grant of £64,000 from the Better Care Fund.
The local charity has recently been able to purchase a full electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) to boost its car scheme, which provides less abled and vulnerable residents with transport across the district.
Bassetlaw District Council allocated the grant, from its portion of the Better Care Fund, which has also helped to install a defibrillator at its base in Retford.
The vehicle and car scheme provides a vital service for residents who can’t access public transport but who need to attend doctor and hospital appointments, other engagements and social visits.
Paula Graham, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Bassetlaw Action Centre said: “The service has a huge impact locally as it helps to reduce the number of missed hospital and doctor appointments and improve social isolation for people with the most limited abilities.
“This vehicle is also used to transport patients to Aurora for access to the gym and increase mobility, which will have significant impact on their health and wellbeing.
“We provide a door-to-door service with regular friendly volunteer drivers, and because our new MPV its fully electric, this means it not only significantly reduces emissions and saves the environment, but is also a cost saving to clients.”
“We’d like to thank Bassetlaw District Council for this funding through the Better Care Fund.”
The vehicle was purchased in the summer and has already had more than 100 regular users so far.
Cllr Sue Shaw, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “The Car scheme is a lifeline for some residents and I’m delighted that through this funding we can help to people to improve their physical and mental health.
“The installation of another defibrillator in Retford Town Centre is fantastic and these are two great additions that will help the hardworking staff at Bassetlaw Action Centre provide a great service to our residents.”
The MPV, run through the Action Centre’s Car Scheme, is fully wheelchair accessible, plus an additional four seats. To access this service, users pay a £20 annual subscription, plus 45p per mile and £1 booking fee for each journey. To book please call 01777 709650.
The Better Care Fund (BCF) is a programme spanning both the NHS and local government which seeks to join-up health and care services, so that people can manage their own health and wellbeing, and live independently in their communities for as long as possible.
The BCF has been created to improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our society, placing them at the centre of their care and support, and providing them integrated health and social care services, resulting in an improved experience and better quality of life.
You can find more information about Bassetlaw Action Centre and their Community Car Scheme by visiting their website.
Last Updated on Thursday, August 31, 2023