Where are you based?
I took early retirement from dentistry and moved back to my home town, Brecon, about seven years ago. When my partner found a job in Builth Wells, we decided to move there.
Builth had the community spirit that I remember Brecon had in my youth. It also has many facilities that even bigger places don't. We were welcomed and made to feel very 'at home' in Builth Wells.
How did you get started?
My partner, Eironwy, had started work in a rented room at Builth Wells Community Support . She suggested that as I was more 'between jobs' and not 'retired' that I think about volunteering. (I was obviously enjoying my retirement too much.)
It was a good decision as I really enjoy my participation. I now use the office she once had, as Treasurer.
What sort of work and when?
As a volunteer driver, we drive patients, mainly disabled/elderly to hospital for check ups, consultations, treatment, operations, or just visiting relatives and loved ones. Unfortunately the nearest hospitals for specialist treatment are miles away - Hereford, Abergavenny, Newport, Cardiff etc - and it is very difficult to get there and back. We also take people to local appointments at the Doctors Surgery, Hospital, Dentist etc. I also deliver library books & meals on wheels and help on a regular basis with Befriending, helping with shopping & collecting pension etc.
Once a month, we take people who are either wheelchair bound or housebound on a day out in a specially adapted minibus, along with other cars. I say 'we' because there are a number of volunteer drivers, (more are always needed), and the journeys and passengers are always different.
The numbers of trips I undertake vary according to demand, and my own free time, but I try to stay involved as it gives me something to do and I meet the people of Builth Wells. It's amazing how many stories you hear when transporting people; especially of the 'good old days'. It is a friendly and much appreciated service.
I have recently joined the committee as the treasurer and become more involved 'behind the scenes'. There is the usual perennial struggle between funding and providing a service. There is always a shortfall to make up and we rely totally on grants, donations & fundraising events.
How Long have you been doing this work?
About four years and 15,000 miles.
Have you got any special skills?
A clean driving licence and a suitable car - insurance companies do not charge extra but need to be notified, a good ear for listening, patience (while waiting at hospitals, etc.To drive the Minibus, you have to do a MIDAS exam; basically a day being taught how to drive it and how to convert and use it for the people in wheelchairs, along with some First Aid Instruction.
How many hours a week do you work.
It varies, some trips can take all day, some less than half an hour. You do as much or as little as you are able. It all helps.
There is a repayment of expenses, based on mileage.
The best thing about the job?
Being appreciated for what you are doing. The community spirit and feeling you are being useful and giving something back to the community. The friendliness of the people despite their problems, the commitment of the staff at the office and the other volunteers.
Worst thing?
The gradual disappearance of the people I used to chat with and know. They have since passed on due to old age or illness.
The lack of funding means that this essential service could possibly end one day. (Probably just as I need it).
Questions and Answers with Ian Phillips
