This was awarded to its Shopmobility Project and is another feather in the cap for this higly respected service.
“The credit is again mainly due to our marvellous team of volunteers, who look after our elderly and disabled passengers, pushing wheelchairs, giving a helping arm, and loading the shopping trolleys” said Shopmobility Manager Marcia Millington.
“But what makes them special is the extra they give, which is so much more than just helping people with their shopping! For many of our passenegrs, their weekly trip out is the only time they get out from within the prison of their four walls, and the friendship, care and company they receive from their regular volunteers makes a huge difference in their lives. Many develop long lasting relationships which go far beyond the basic requirements of helping them shop, and it is this level of extra attention that has made our volunteers worthy winners of this award for “Outstanding Customer Care.”
Wandsworth Community Transport is also particularly pleased to receive recognition as a “Business”. For too long the voluntary sector has been perceived as well meaning amateurs who try their best to help. This is far from the case. We are the new breed of Social Enterprises that compete in the open market to provide the highest level of services, whilst still promoting equality of opportunity for staff, volunteers and service users. All the money we get, be it from grant, contract or donation, goes to make us the best rather than to pay shareholders – and it shows!
