Community Car Scheme

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What is the Community Car Scheme?

This scheme exists mainly to provide transport for out-of-town hospital and other health-related appointments. Other journeys (shopping, visiting, etc) may be provided at our discretion, especially if you have a health issue that prevents you from easily accessing other forms of transport. Community Car transport is available to all residents living within Rhayader & District - LD6. Journeys may be of any distance, weekdays and weekends.

 

Is there a cost?

Yes, there is an initial cost of £2 when you are booking a trip. This Booking Fee helps cover the cost of processing your request, sourcing a driver and keeping strict records of all trips, for administration and auditing purposes.

 

Travel Cost: 
The current cost is 45p per mile and covers the FULL mileage incurred by drivers throughout the trip - from the time they leave home, to returning back to their home.

 

If you live in Rhayader Town, example costs are:

Rhayader to Llandrindod Hospital & return: 24 miles - £10.80

Rhayader to Aberystwyth Hospital & return: 68 miles - £30.60

Rhayader to Hereford Hospital & return: 94 miles - £42.30

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Claims for transport costs:

If you are in receipt of certain benefits such as ESA & Pensions Credits you may be entitled to claim your travel cost from the hospital, on the day. This will be paid directly to your driver.

 

Free hospital transport is available through PTHB Non-Emergency Patient Transport. To check your eligibility (mobility and cognitive issues) and to book a trip with them, you can call 0845 8401234.

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Guidelines for Passengers

All transport is provided by Volunteer Drivers using their own vehicles and donating their time freely.

 

Due respect must be given to drivers’ vehicles at all times and any damage to upholstery etc. or valeting needed as a result of soiling should be paid for by the passenger.

 

Drivers will always have an ID badge with their photo on, plus the phone number and contact details of the office.

 

Parking Costs must be paid for by passengers.

 

All contact for bookings must be made via the office. Passengers must not contact drivers directly.

 

The office must be informed if the hospital appointment is for day surgery as it may be necessary to arrange 2 x separate trips.

 

Seatbelts must be worn at all times, and child seats must be supplied by passengers. Under 16'’s must be accompanied by a parent/guardian or suitable adult.

 

No smoking or eating is permitted invehicles

 

Any special needs, health-related issues or “risks” must be advised to the office at the time of booking.

 

If you have a Blue Badge, please take this with you for use during the journey.

 

There is a Complaints Form available at The Arches Office should you, or your driver feel it necessary to make a complaint.

 

It is customary for a passenger to reimburse their driver for any refreshments or meal costs incurred whilst waiting for you, however this is not compulsory.​