TWO TEAMS in eastern Vale of Glamorgan are offering lifts for coronavirus vaccinations after GPs across the region began vaccinating this week.

For residents in Penarth, Cogan and Llandough volunteer drivers for East Vale Community Transport (EVCT) are providing lifts for the vulnerable who have a vaccination appointment.

For residents in Dinas Powys, Michaelston-le-pit and St Andrews Major drivers are volunteering for Dinas Powys Voluntary Concern (DPVC).

Penarth Times: Wendy Lees with drivers for DPVCWendy Lees with drivers for DPVC

All drivers have been fully trained to be compliant with Covid-19 rules.

EVCT’s wheelchair-friendly minibuses have been adapted with Perspex screens between driver and passenger, and are sanitised every journey.

People who need personal assistance will need their own escorts, as drivers will not be able to accompany people into the surgery.

EVCT coordinator Steve Thomas explained: “Sadly Covid regulations have made our usual group trips impossible in the last months but we are now ready to take individuals and any escort to their local surgery for vaccinations.

Penarth Times: Wendy LeesWendy Lees

“We will need notice in order to organise your journey but drivers will be able to pick you up from your home and wait at the surgery before taking you back.

“We only as for donation to defray costs.”

Despite their office at Murchfield Community Centre being badly flooded over Christmas, one of the DPVC organisers Cllr John Fanshaw says volunteers Judith Anderson and Wendy Lees have “worked incredibly hard every single day” to make sure people can get to their vaccination appointments.

Penarth Times:

“We are using two vehicles and we have plenty of Covid-trained volunteers driving people to Dinas Powys medical centre,” he said.

“The dedication of our volunteers has really blown me away.”

For more information for EVCT trips call 02920 705 138.

For more information for DPVC trips call 02920513700.