A SOUTH Side volunteer group is appealing for drivers to help transport vulnerable residents to vaccine appointments.

South West Community Transport, who offer a pick up and drop off service for elderly residents needing transport to medical centres and hospitals, have put a call out to locals with cars willing to help others get to vital appointments.

Bob Millar, from South West Community Transport, said: “We originally started 10 years ago and we cater to people aged over 55 with mobility or health issues living local to Pollok, although we transport patients to hospitals and medical centres throughout the Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board.

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“Before Covid-19, we were able to fulfil around 75% of requests for transport.

“We are looking for volunteers to drive our minibuses and their own car to help as the demand increases with vaccine appointments starting to ramp up.”

South West Community Transport have seen volunteers have to shield and isolate which has striped back resources for those using the service.

The group are following stringent Covid-safe guidelines, including the use of masks and gloves by volunteers and passengers and frequent cleaning of vehicles, as well as requiring that volunteers undergo a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check.

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Bob said: “One of the biggest issues is that the Scottish Ambulance Service would normally be able to carry a few passengers at a time but with social distancing at the moment, they can only take one per ambulance.

“Because we have the minibus and a bit more space, we are able to take six people at a time.

“Covid has cancelled a lot of appointments but a lot of people forget that there are patients that still have to attend in person and they need transport to get there.”

Anyone interested in taking part in the volunteer group should contact Bob via email at bob@southwestct.org.uk.