DRIVERS who can spare a few hours a week are being invited to join North West Ambulance service (NWAS).

Volunteers are needed to help transport patients to routine appointments as part of the NWAS Patient Transport Service.

No previous experience is required and full training will be provided by NWAS.

All volunteers will use their own cars but are reimbursed for travel costs.

Each driver can offer a few hours a week or longer with some opting to drive within the North West while others transport patients on journeys to and from hospitals across the UK.

Around 1.5 million patients in the North West use this service every year.

NWAS is hoping to expand the number of drivers to help 350,000 patients who currently have no volunteer service.

Nigel Pinchen, 36, from Lancashire, said: “I’ve volunteered since 2017.

"I became a volunteer because my dad used the service as patient. I see volunteering as a way of repaying the ambulance service for helping him.

“I love volunteer driving. It gives me a great sense of well-being and I really feel appreciated by patients and ambulance staff.

"The flexibility is great, so I can continue to work as a professional darts player.”

There are around 311 drivers who provide transport for around two patients on one day of volunteering.

Head of Patient Transport Service at NWAS Ian Stringer said: “There are many reasons why people become volunteer drivers; they typically enjoy driving, helping people and want to give something back to the community.

"Whatever your reason for becoming a volunteer driver, you’ll find it extremely rewarding.

“We will give you all the training you need, and help you with any paperwork or processes linked to becoming an ambulance service volunteer.

"As a volunteer driver, you’ll step into people’s lives for one-off or regular appointments. During that time, you’ll make a huge difference to them and the NHS.

“We encourage applications from drivers of all ages, from all communities and cultures.”

To join the NWAS team of volunteer drivers visit www.nwas.nhsuk/drive or call 0345 1120 999.