Herefordshire community transport

County advice overview

Community Transport Schemes exist across Herefordshire to connect residents, without access to conventional transport and from isolated rural locations, to surrounding areas.  

Dial-a-Ride and Call and Go schemes provide a bookable service for people who have problems accessing public transport. For example, if you live too far from a bus stop, find it difficult getting on and off public buses, or there is no bus service nearby. 

You do not need to be registered disabled or use a wheelchair to be eligible but must register for the service. 

Key tips 

It is important to plan your use of community transport in advance. Services are often run by volunteers and pre-booking is essential. You may wish to consider: 

• Community transport providers are often in high demand, so it is best to book your journey several days in advance if you can. 
• You may need to register with the service in advance of your first booking and a membership fee sometimes applies in addition to travel costs. 
• At the time of booking, inform the provider of any mobility and accessibility needs you may have and which equipment you intend to travel with.  
• Some operators offer a discount or are even free with a valid bus pass, so it is worth obtaining one, if you are eligible, even if you never catch a regular bus. 
• Not all Dial-a-Ride schemes can take you to hospital appointments or day care centres. These appointments can be arranged by your doctor, the hospital, social services, or you may be able to use a community car scheme. 
• Community car schemes are run by volunteers and the drivers will take you to hospital and doctor’s appointments and usually wait with you for your appointment. Some community car schemes can also take you to the shops or other destinations. 

Operators 

A full list of community transport schemes is available on the Herefordshire Council’s website. 

You Go – Bromyard Community Transport 

bromyardcommunitytransport.co.uk

Anyone without access to a car or public transport can use this dial-a-ride service. There is a nominal annual registration fee, which allows unlimited use with the Go Dial and community car service. All journeys are then charged a fare basis according to distance, you can contact them for a more specific cost. 

Contact: 01885 488 452

Herefordshire Dial-a-Ride

www.plynlimon.org.uk/herefordshire-dial-a-ride

A door-to-door transport scheme for people who find using public transport difficult. All minibuses are wheelchair accessible and bookings are taken the day before the passenger wishes to travel.

Contact: 01432 356687

Travel costs 

Community transport costs can vary depending on the service provided.  

Many schemes are run by not-for-profit organisations and only charge based on their actual operating costs. So, the fare you pay will be competitive with public transport costs in most cases. Fares are much cheaper than taxis and there is sometimes a reduced rate for bus pass holders. 

Check with the individual provider when booking your trip, or browse their website, to receive an estimate of costs. 

Special assistance 

Assistance is variable for each service. Information can be found on an operator’s website or by contacting them by telephone. 

When booking any community transport in your area, be clear about your mobility requirements and check in advance that the service is able to accommodate your mobility equipment. 

Travelling with mobility equipment 

Check with the individual community transport scheme, regarding travelling with mobility equipment. Services vary depending on the type and size of equipment that can be carried, due to space.   

Most minibuses are wheelchair accessible, although may have limited capacity for wheelchairs.  

Voluntary car schemes often require passengers to be able to transfer independently. Some can stow foldable wheelchairs and aids.