The deadline for nominations for the third biennial Grampian Volunteer Transport Awards, which seek to recognise the important work of volunteer drivers and escorts in the Grampian area, has been extended.
The awards, which were first established in 2014, hope to highlight the vital role community transport plays in allowing people access to health and social care services in the north-east.
Supported by a variety of Health & Transport Action Plan (HTAP) partner organisations across public, third and commercial sectors, the awards are seeking nominations under three categories:
Volunteer Driver of the Year
To be awarded to an individual who has given their time without charge to drive someone in their community.
Volunteer Escort of the Year
To be awarded to an individual who has given their time without charge to escort someone using transport services.
Organisation of the Year
To be awarded to a voluntary sector group that has done the most to make a difference through its transport services to a local community.
Andrew Stewart, HTAP programme manager, highlights the value of the sector: “Across the region volunteers play an important role in helping people access services and recreational activities vital to their wellbeing. It’s great to be holding the awards for a third time and at the same time distributing materials encouraging people to think about volunteering with local charities providing transport.”
The winner of each category will receive a certificate and prize worth £200 sponsored by First Aberdeen and Stagecoach North Scotland.
David Phillips, operations director for First Aberdeen, said: “We are delighted to once again be supporting this year’s awards which recognise some of the fantastic work done in the community to improve local transport. At First Aberdeen, we work in close partnership with the local authorities and the NHS Grampian, so we are thrilled to be part of this event that recognises the hard work that goes into improving local services across the sector.”
Mark Whitelocks, managing director of Stagecoach North Scotland, said: "We understand and recognise the importance of providing vital connections to health and social care facilities. A number of our services provide links to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Dr Gray's Hospital and the many other facilities in Aberdeen and across the region. Without public transport, volunteer drivers and escorts many people would be unable to access the services they require. We are overjoyed to be able to support these awards and help recognise those that offer their time and energy to provide these essential resources."
The deadline for nominations has been extended until Friday October 5, with prizes being awarded on November 9, 2018 at an event being held at the Aberdeen Town House.
Nominations forms are available from THInC on 01467 536111 or by emailing travel@thinc-hub.
They can also be downloaded from http://www.nestrans.org.uk/projects/travel-awareness/gvta/