Volunteer drivers for Daisy Ring Bus can now park for free in Cowes, helping them continue transporting patients to off-Island hospital appointments, thanks to the support of Northwood House Charitable Trust.
The Trust, which already operates a free parking scheme for NHS patients travelling to the mainland for appointments or treatment, has extended the initiative to include Daisy Ring Bus volunteers.
Drivers will now have access to complimentary parking at Park Road Car Park, making it easier to begin their shifts transporting patients between the ferry and the hospital in Southampton.
The scheme is administered by Cowes Town Council on behalf of the Trust and aims to reduce travel barriers for volunteers while ensuring patients receive timely support.
The initiative was first introduced as a trial in October following the launch of the new Daisy Ring Bus service in Southampton. Due to its success, the Trust has agreed to extend the programme for a further year, strengthening community backing for the vital service.
Daisy Ring Bus Volunteer Coordinator Rex Goldsmith said:
“Our volunteer drivers play a vital role in helping people access their off-Island hospital appointments and we are very grateful to Northwood House Charitable Trust for supporting our drivers with free parking near to the Red Jet.”
Chief Operating Officer at Northwood House Charitable Trust Co Ltd, Darren Cool, added:
“The Trust is pleased to be able to support both patients and Daisy Ring Bus volunteer drivers with free parking to make the process of getting to the mainland an easier one.”
Cowes Mayor, Councillor Stuart Ellis, said:
“This is a great example of the community working together to make a real difference in helping people to access vital NHS services. Well done to all those involved in making this happen.”
Anyone who can spare just one day a week and would like to volunteer as a driver for this invaluable transport service for cancer patients and their carers is asked to contact Rex Goldsmith on 07399 468854 or email [email protected].
Good to hear well done CTC
It’s the least they can do.
It should be funded by the NHS