Celebrating the driving force behind community transport: Volunteers’ Week 2025

Volunteers’ Week 2025 is here – a time to celebrate the thousands of dedicated individuals who give their time, energy and compassion to help others through community transport.

At the Community Transport Association (CTA), we know that volunteers are the heart of our sector. Without them, many community transport services simply wouldn’t exist. From door-to-door journeys to helping passengers get to vital appointments, volunteers keep our communities moving – especially those who are isolated, vulnerable or have limited access to public transport.

Take John Walker, a 74-year-old retiree who has been driving for Westway Community Transport in Kensington and Chelsea for 23 years. His commitment has helped countless people stay independent, social and connected. Or Mark Calvin in Crickhowell, Wales, who dedicates several hours a month to the local Dial-A-Ride bus and was recently invited to Buckingham Palace in recognition of his service.

It’s not just about driving. Volunteers also play crucial roles in administration, passenger support and fundraising. Their impact stretches far beyond transport – for many, volunteering boosts confidence, improves wellbeing and can even open the door to employment. At Manor Community Transport, several volunteers have gone on to secure paid roles thanks to the skills and experience they gained.

Jim Dorricott, 81, from Larkhall & District Volunteer Group (LDVG) in Scotland, has clocked up over 670 hours volunteering over the past three years – helping people get to non-emergency NHS appointments, come rain or shine. Jacqueline Gallacher from LDVG sums it up: “Jim is the heart of what volunteering is all about: compassion, commitment, and community. He offers a listening ear, waits patiently and brings comfort and reassurance to people who may feel anxious or unable to use public transport.”

In Gloucestershire, Martin from Community Connexions has been volunteering since 2022. Whether it’s a trip to the GP or a journey to the seaside, Martin is happy to help. “I find volunteering enjoyable. It gives me awareness and understanding of people less able than myself which is hopefully making me a better person,” he says.

Meanwhile, Uppingham Town Council Mayor Dave Ainslie doesn’t just drive the community hopper bus – he helped set it up, organises the rotas and handles repairs and fundraising. His dedication ensures local people have free access to essential transport.

Then there’s Hilary Sharp and Christine Furmston, who set up their own transport scheme in rural South Cambridgeshire over 40 years ago. Heron Self Help continues to connect people from six villages to healthcare services – a four-decade legacy of community care and commitment.

Committed and caring volunteers like Roy Davies at Dolen Teifi CT in Wales bring so much more than driving skills. “Roy is a powerful reminder that volunteering isn’t just about the hours given, but the lives touched along the way,” says his colleague Rod Bowen. “Celebrating Roy means celebrating the difference one person can make when they choose to show up, day after day, for their community.”

At CTA, we’re proud to support the work of volunteers and help community transport providers grow strong, sustainable volunteering programmes and opportunities. Our CEO Victoria Armstrong says: “Volunteers bring heart, energy and purpose to our sector. Whether they’re behind the wheel or behind the scenes, they’re helping communities stay connected – and for that, we’re truly grateful.”

We’ve pulled together resources to help CT operators recruit, celebrate and support volunteers, including:

Guidance on how collaboration can help with sustainable volunteering here.

A ready-to-use Volunteering Policy template here