Fares4Free Volunteer David Hannah provides More Than A Journey

Fares4Free where recently approached by NHS Highland regarding a veteran who was suffering from Vascular Dementia who had recently broken his hip and was in NHS respite care in Golspie, over 70 miles from his home. His wife Pam, who doesn't drive, had been taking 3 bus journeys during each visit all lasting more than 7 hours each and this journey also included an overnight stay, to visit her husband every week. NHS Highland passed this case onto Fares4Free to see if any assistance could be given through our 'More Than A Journey' model. 

After speaking with Pam, we arranged for David Hannah, one of our volunteer Outreach Support Drivers, to get in touch and find out how we could help support best. We agreed to a once-a-month trip to facilitate visiting her husband.  For David this was a 285-mile round trip and an 11-hour day. For Pam this was an opportunity to visit her husband and have someone to talk to afterwards.

Having an opportunity to stop whilst driving through Golspie, Pam managed to buy a new suitcase for her forthcoming visit to see her son and grandchildren in Slovakia and was absolutely delighted. Being such a long journey, David and Pam were always happy to stop at the Pier Cafe in Lairg for a morning break - fabulous cakes and coffee for Pam, and a much needed mocha for David.

The Fares4Free Operations Manager, Leon Fisher, had the following to say:

"This is a perfect example of the geographical reach that we offer on our 'More Than A Journey' model.  The impact our volunteer outreach support drivers make to the lives of the people who we support and their families is life changing.  David not only volunteers with Fares4Free but is also the Vice President of the RBLS Highland & Islands Area so his reach within the area is profound and really helps when it comes to our intelligent signposting that we offer."

If you would like to volunteer as an Outreach Support Driver and give back to your local community please contact Leon today via email at leon@fare4free.org or call 0141 266 6000.