Community Transport Minibus Driver

Christchurch Community Partnership; Hurn; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community service organization in Hurn is seeking a Community Transport Driver to assist clients in accessing social and support groups. The role involves driving a minibus, helping clients with mobility aids, and performing vehicle checks. Applicants must hold a valid D1 driving licence and be committed to fostering a supportive environment. This is a part-time position with flexible hours and training opportunities.

Qualifications

• Hold a driving licence valid for a minibus carrying up to 16 passengers.
• Be prepared to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check.
• Commitment to equal opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Transport clients to and from various locations in the BH23 area.
• Assist clients using mobility aids in and out of vehicles.
• Carry out vehicle checks and maintain professional relationships.

Skills

Good interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to deal with unexpected issues

Team player with flexibility

Basic IT skills

Education

Valid D1 driving licence

MIDAS training

Job description

Overview

We are looking for a Community Transport Driver to operate one of our two minibuses which are used to assist clients in getting to and from lunch clubs and other social and support groups. The vacancy is for up to 10 hours per week, ideally worked on Monday and Tuesday to support a lunch club and an exercise class. There may be some flexibility in working days which will be discussed on application.

Responsibilities

• Transport clients to and from various locations in the BH23 area.
• Work closely with the Bus Buddy to assist clients using mobility aids (such as wheelchairs/rollators) in and out of vehicles and operate the tail lift for those unable to access the vehicle via the main steps.
• Carry out vehicle checks and complete a daily checklist before and after taking vehicles out.
• Carry out basic internal cleaning of the vehicles.
• Comply with statutory and CCP driving regulations, including wearing a visibility jacket and a name badge.
• Liaise closely with the Transport Coordinator to plan efficient bus routes and timings.
• Maintain professional relationships with colleagues, clients and the general public at all times.
• Report to the Office Manager any safety or other issues that may impact your ability to carry out responsibilities.
• Assist with other general duties relevant to the organisation’s aims and objectives, including drawing up driving schedules, providing refreshments for clients, carrying out first aid (training required), and assisting in routine maintenance appointments for the bus.
• Hold a driving licence valid for a minibus carrying up to 16 passengers for a charitable organisation under category D1 (101) or hold a D1 licence, and be free of driving endorsements.
• Be prepared to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Commit to the ad hoc nature of the post and have the physical ability to manoeuvre an adult in a wheelchair.
• Be a good team player with flexibility, and have good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to equal opportunities.
• If not already held, be prepared to undertake MIDAS training for the post, and attend other training deemed necessary (e.g., Safeguarding Adults, Moving and Handling, First Aid). Training may occur outside regular hours with pay or time off in lieu.
• Ability to deal with unexpected issues, make decisions under pressure, and interact with clients, customers and colleagues in a kind and patient manner. Basic IT skills to update Excel/Word documents and use email are desirable.

Please visit our website to find out more about us – this is much more than "just a driving role", it is hugely rewarding and a great opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives: www.christchurchcommunitypartnership.org.uk