A charity that has helped people for more than three decades is looking for new volunteers.

The Axminster Care Service (ACS), which was founded 34 years ago, provides support for people in need within the Axminster Medical Practice catchment area.

This includes helping those who are struggling financially, particularly in emergencies or after a change in circumstances.

The charity also provides grants to schools, groups, and organisations facing difficulty in raising necessary funds.

The ACS is supported by around 50 volunteers and primarily funded by their charity shop on South Street.

They operate a comprehensive transport service, providing approximately 2,000 trips each year to help people get to their medical appointments.

Service users are not charged for these journeys, although donations are appreciated to help cover costs.

The charity is currently looking for new volunteer telephonists to join their team.

These volunteers play a crucial role in coordinating transport requests and allocating them to drivers.

They take calls from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 10.30am, operating from a dedicated space within the charity shop premises.

The ACS state that just one morning a week for approximately two hours can make a big difference in maintaining an efficient service.

All new volunteers are coached through the booking process until they feel confident about doing it alone and taking on an independent shift.

The charity holds regular team meetings for volunteers to compare notes and share ideas and suggestions.

These meetings also provide an opportunity for the telephonists and drivers to connect.

A testimonial from one service user stated: "We are so lucky in Axminster to have this service.

"I have often called out of hours knowing that my request for transport will be speedily dealt with as soon as the office opens, and there is always a volunteer driver willing to help me get to my appointment in good time.

"Thank all of you so much for the hours you spend patiently waiting."

The ACS is keen to hear from anyone interested in volunteering, as well as those who require their support or know someone who might.

For more information, potential volunteers or service users can email axminstercareservice@gmail.com or leave a message at their office on 01297 35550.

Someone from the charity will then get in touch to provide further details.

The charity continues to play a vital role in the community, filling in the gaps between medical, social services, and transport provision.

Their work ensures that those in need within the Axminster Medical Practice catchment area receive the necessary support and assistance.