Alicia Kearns MP met with the Chief Executive of Voluntary Action Rutland (VAR), Tom Walters, and the team of volunteers behind this charity to learn more about the services they offer to support the local community.
VAR supports and promotes local voluntary action in Rutland by providing advice, information, support, training and consultation. VAR is Rutland’s largest community transport provider and over the past year their 50 volunteer drivers have covered around 115,000 miles and undertaken more than 5,606 sperate journeys.
This visit follows the announcement in October that VAR will receive an uplift in funding from the Government, as part of a 60% nationwide increase in the Bus Service Operator Grant per mile cash for community transport organisations.
Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton, said:
“Voluntary Action Rutland has been helping Rutlanders for over 40 years, providing vital community transport services and volunteer support.
“Their transport scheme ensures all members of our communities are able to access our market towns, medical appointments, and social activities, no matter where they live.
“I am so grateful to the wonderful team of volunteers here, who selflessly dedicate so much of their time to improve the lives of others.”
Tom Walter, Chief Executive of Voluntary Action Rutland, said:
“It was a real pleasure meeting Alicia at Voluntary Action Rutland last week. Despite being pulled in numerous directions with global events, she is clearly very well informed and passionate about the challenges surrounding rural transportation in Rutland and the support it needs to continue performing this vital role. It was lovely having the opportunity to introduce Alicia to some of the team of both staff and volunteers and we very much look forward to continuing to work closely with Alicia going forward. Thank you.”
