The scheme is managed by Keith Goodwin who, with scheduler Bryan Carey and Assistant Manager Debbie Harris, supply the public with a range of options, centred around a demand-responsive transport system with a fare structure and a door-to-door service for paid-up members, of which there are currently 720. Of course, bus passes are also accepted after 9.30am.
“In fact, 60% of what we do is shopping trips,” says Keith. “The Door To Door service is open to members who pay £15 a year to join and then pay what is basically a mileage charge for each trip, worked with a banded fare structure.”
The service – run under the auspices of a Section 22 Community Bus Permit – is so focused on this core business that one of the vehicles even has a dedicated space for supermarket shopping boxes. But all of the vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Not all passengers want to go shopping. A proportion book a ride to reach luncheon clubs, day centres and other social activities: “Most of our customers have either mobility issues or perhaps can’t carry shopping,” says Keith. “It’s a lifeline for many people; some have told us that, before they took their first trip with us, they hadn’t left the house for two years.
“Many have no immediate next of kin to care for them but for others, it’s just a matter of pride that they don’t like to ask for lifts. But that’s what we’re here for.”
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Newsletter Library 2023
moreThe Satellite Group is for Club members who would rather meet in the evening, instead of at lunchtime. Their activities include a full range of Rotary activities. Some of these are shown below
moreWe have been twinned with two other International Clubs for many years and enjoy regular visits to each others countries.
moreHelping people round the world through International Service. Examples of previous projects are shown on the right. Just click on the picture for more information.
moreHow we raise funds to support local organisations and charities
moreProjects for which the Club has obtained a Grant from Rotary Foundation Funding
moreProviding support to people locally
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moreClub History
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moreThe Rotary Club of Northampton welcomes members of our community who cannot spare the time or the resources to be full members, but would like to help with certain events.
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