Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group is desperately seeking volunteer drivers to transport cancer patients to and from hospital appointments for treatment.
Allison White, who runs the charity – which includes a shop and advice hub in Newton Aycliffe town centre – said that the situation is now critical. “The demand for our services has grown considerably, however, we urgently need to hear from car owners who can give up some time to transport patients to hospitals in the North East. Expenses will be paid,” said Allison.
“We also need volunteers to help in our town centre shop and our new shop in Darlington (opening date to be announced). If anyone can volunteer for a morning or afternoon – or more – we would love to hear from them. There are so many people struggling with cancer and its effects. It’s heart-breaking,” she added.
“We don’t like to turn people away.” Citing how the workload has grown, Allison explained that in April last year, six drivers were ferrying patients to hospital – now there are ten. “Our transport costs have doubled in just one year,” she said. Such is the demand for patient transport that some hospitals are now contacting Allison directly to help.
Potential volunteers and those with donations for tombola prizes, can contact the charity’s adviser, Marianne, on 07442 991859 or email short9616[@]gmail[.]com.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
