Partnership getting the wheels moving
Apr 2 2008 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette
AN INNOVATIVE transport scheme that helps people access jobs by lending them a scooter has launched a new training programme in North Yorkshire.
Wheels2Work is moving its training venue thanks to a partnership with North Yorkshire County Council.
Anyone accepted on to the moped loan scheme will receive expert training at a new site off Racecourse Lane, Northallerton.
BT on Darlington Road have provided the training facility for the last two years.
Wheels2Work was launched seven years ago and has helped nearly 500 people into work, education and training.
Operated by Northallerton and District Voluntary Service Association, it runs a fleet of 50 scooters providing candidates aged 16 and above valuable transport links from their rural homes for six months.
Safety is an important element of the scheme. So as well as being lent a scooter and provided with insurance and safety equipment, riders undergo intensive training by Pete Mason of Safe Rider Training.
Scheme co-ordinator Andrew Johnston said: “The new facility allows us to provide an excellent standard of safety training and we are looking forward to working with everyone involved to ensure the scheme goes from strength to strength.”
Living in England’s largest county can provide major difficulties for people in myriad small communities dotted around North Yorkshire.
A lack of regular public transport means that many people are isolated and find it difficult to reach the larger towns where colleges and employers are based. The scooter scheme helps them over the transport hurdle.
VSA development officer Kevin Holt said: “This scheme meets our rural needs extremely well and it is a targeted transport solution for people living in rural areas who are looking for jobs and training.”
Wheels2Work applicants must live in the Hambleton and Richmondshire area, although there are other schemes covering all districts of North Yorkshire.
Applicants must show that they need transport to travel to work, education or training and that there is no suitable alternative.
More details at www.wheels2work.co.uk
