HI Friends operates a minibus which is available to the whole community a legacy idea brought to us from a generous Mrs Muncey in her Will in 1980. The minibus service has evolved since then, along a replacement minibus along the way, and we are delighted to have won a grant for a new electric minibus to the diesel/petrol one we use. We anticipate this to be in operation in winter 2025/26.
How the minibus is used for HI Friends
HI Friends also uses the minibus as a transport service for participants of the various clubs it runs for older people who are otherwise immobile.
One of the most significant benefits offered are the regular local supermarket shopping trips, for example, the trip to Tesco Bar Hill on the first and third Tuesday of the month. For those who have difficulty using the public buses, the individual attention and personal touch offered is second to none. We do request a £5 donation, please, each time you use the service.
Anyone is welcome on the regular shopping trips, as long as there is space.
Volunteering
When the minibus is used for HI Friends activities, it relies on volunteer drivers. We are always on the look out for more drivers so if you are interested in helping with this worthwhile community activity please do look on this link driving the minibus.
Hiring the minibus for local community groups
The minibus is also shared with local day centres and other local organisations for the elderly during the week. Usually these are regular bookings, and the cost of them is minimal.
Any other local organisation or group can use the minibus and will need to complete a membership minibus group user form. With 15 seats including the driver, many village youth groups and sports teams find bus really easy and convenient to use. It is frequently available at weekends and evenings.
Anyone over 21 and under 70 can drive the bus, a driver registration form needs to be completed and a short familiarisation exercise with the bus is offered.
There is a mileage charge currently £1.05 per mile which includes all costs fuel, insurance and breakdown cover.
Read HI Friends minibus policy if you are interested in hiring out the minibus and please read our tips on driving the minibus.
Using the Trishaw
Our battery-assisted community Trishaw offers rides to local people who need a bit of help getting out and about. A trishaw ride is a novel idea for a fun and sociable trip out of the house, in the fresh air for an elderly parent or friend. available for use an hour at a time.
Read more about using our trishaw.
Minibus Replacement
Since any vehicle has a limited life, we have a special fund to pay its replacement when this becomes necessary.
If you would like to contribute to this you can do so here.