There are many routes by which we obtain funding, some are proactive, some are reactive. All are required in order to cover the ongoing running costs of the fleet.

Bank Holidays are a key service period so should not be overlooked.

It’s a judgement call based on their demeanour – but if they have stopped to comment, all options can be explained. Suggesting contactless could be as simple as £1 may also help their decision making.

It is up to the acquiring user to organise collection, with mutual respect for availability and transport options. Rota Manager will usually allow suitable time between the vehicle being on duty with different volunteers to permit the transfer. By splitting fleet across 3 regions it reduces transfer miles/time and allows for vehicles to be serviced or attend events.

Adding the specifics of the variety of locations we serve helps to emphasise the value we add to the NHS

For avoidance of doubt and protection of volunteer and Charity ensure any physical contact with a child is with the parent’s presence and permission.

Pointing an enquiry to a specific website may avoid potential issues with Google’s sponsored links and seem more informative than the generic Google response.

We should treat each conversation as a potential recruitment opportunity, even if indirectly, so we need to be realistic as to the opportunities to be involved. It may not be the enquirer, but an acquaintance that they pass the message on to.

By confirming that we have been included in the NHS exemption from Road Fund Licence, and that when purchasing our vehicles, we do not pay VAT, we add credibility to the service we provide. Beyond that everything is funded through donations and the efforts of our volunteers, plus any corporate sponsorships such as BP and AA.

Private vehicles used must be covered for ‘unpaid charity work’ on their insurance, and private bikes can only be used for samples transport if they have hard luggage

Typically we would look for a commitment of around 3-4 duties per month (10% of a year evenly spread) plus participation in some fundraising events. 😉.

Primarily it is according to individual availability, but there are the additional constraints which we apply as duty of care.

As the face of SERV OBN at a fundraising event, including mention of the concession for Oxford (5) helps to emphasise the significant role SERV OBN plays even if we don’t have blue lights, it also suggests we are serious about being effective in what we do, and Oxford Council agree.

We do not want to downplay the impact of our service, as our range of activities is extensive. From transporting samples and blood to delivering milk and participating in transplant patient blood activity, every activity is worth recognizing. During collection activities, people often share their stories, and we take the opportunity to describe the additional value that their donation brings.😎

The website provides details of the fleet vehicles, their individual names, a brief explanation of their namesake’s achievement and any key funders or sponsors of the vehicle.

True Corporates are AA & BP supporting the fleet. Being recognised by such as Masonic Lodges is also very valuable.

A policy exists for charity collections to ensure financial probity

The only real age restriction relates to Fleet Insurance stipulations. Other roles within the Charity are more flexible; a helping hand from non-riders/drivers is always welcome and can be encouraged.