Frequently Asked Questions Here are some frequently asked questions and some examples of current schemes:
A PROFIT on expenses paid the scheme and volunteer drivers need only comply with regulations applicable to private motorists.
Can we charge for the trip and pay our drivers?
How many drivers do we need?
Can we get a Blue Car Badge for our scheme?
Drivers can be reimbursed in a couple of ways, either by direct payment from the person making the journey or by claiming expenses, often on a monthly basis, using a trip sheet. The client pays the scheme.
You can start with just one person or a small group. The number of drivers you have and their availability to undertake journeys will affect the service you can offer.
You can’t apply for a blue badge for a scheme but you can display a badge belonging to someone you are transporting.
Is there an age limit for Drivers? Does someone need to answer the phone all the time? It is not necessary to have the phone answered at all times, there could be publicised times that fit in with your volunteers, say a couple of hours in the morning during the working week and at other times some way of people leaving messages.
Do we need a special licence? The answer here is no, voluntary car schemes are exempt from ALL the licensing and operating regulations. Providing your drivers do NOT MAKE page 30
No – but it is probably a good idea to insist that Drivers are pronounced medically fit to drive by their GP once they reach a certain age , 75 or 80 for example, as this protects their volunteer status and avoids any possible implications relating to benefit payments and tax.
Yes. See Money section for taxable rates.
It is good practice that drivers are reimbursedthrough the scheme as this protects their volunteer status and avoids any possible implications relating to benefit payments and tax. A receipt should always be issued. It is a good idea for individual drivers to check out current regulations.