Agbrigg & Belle Vue Community Association

Eileen Worton
On our travels delivering our Community Newspaper it is apparent that many of our elderly residents feel isolated and are unable to access many of the local groups, luncheon clubs etc. to socialise and keep updated with local events which are being promoted by the statutory bodies as important in maintaining physical and mental well-being.

The problem is also more acute for the many elderly residents who live on the east side of Doncaster Road, as all the venues for activities are situated on the west  side, and their reduced mobility inhibits them from accessing safe crossing points so the alternative is to stay at home or dice with death to cross this horrendously busy road.

In order to respond to their queries we have obtained information relating to 2 projects which provide limited community transport.

The WAKEYBUS

The WAKEYBUS project offers a service to community groups or not for profit organisations at a cost. They have 8,12,& 16 seater minibuses with wheelchair access.  For more information:

Telephone:  01924 374238.
E-mail : re-connect@dsl.pipex.com

The ACCESSBUS

The ACCESSBUS offers a service for those unable to use public transport.

It is a DIAL–A–RIDE bus service providing door-to-door local transport to people who are unable to use conventional bus service.

It is free of charge to residents of West Yorkshire and operates between 9am to 5.30pm from Monday to Saturday and 9am to 5pm on Sunday. A limited evening service available for groups of 5 or more.

Due to high demand for this service most trips are for shopping purposes, but a limited number for social purposes e.g. community centres.

For most efficient use of the buses they serve certain areas on set days allocating places to customers. For more information:

Telephone: 0113 348 1903 between 7.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

While both these services are commendable they provide a limited service.

Many of our older residents live in rented accommodation.

We ask if it is possible for an organisation like WDH or Age Concern to canvass residents needs and co-ordinate who wants to attend various groups and liaise with the transport providers.

The Community Association will continue to raise these issues to see if we can improve what is available.

NOTE: This information was believed to be correct at the time of going to print, but no responsibility is taken for errors or omissions.