North Norfolk Community Transport:

For many, NNCT’s door-to-door minibus service is key to independence and accessing local services. NNCT received Love Norfolk funding to support subsidised travel to the Aylsham Older People’s Association (AOPA) sessions.

The AOPA promote the wellbeing of older people in Aylsham and the surrounding area. Their groups, ‘Friendship Club’ and ‘Social Club’, were severely impacted by the pandemic, with members being extremely vulnerable due to their age. After a prolonged period of social isolation, the Love Norfolk grant is being used to provide accessible minibus transport via NNCT and enable the group activities to restart.

Group members enjoy playing cards, having hot drinks, and chatting with friends at weekly sessions. The minibus journey itself is also enjoyed by everyone, with a camaraderie surrounding going from house to house, picking each member up. Having this opportunity has had a really noticeable difference on the members’ wellbeing. Being able to see others and have fun together has been a lifeline for otherwise isolated people. For many, attending an AOPA group is their only opportunity to leave the house each week.

The Love Norfolk fund has given older people in the Aylsham area the opportunity to gather again after the pandemic, and the chance to meet up is valued now more than ever. NNCT has not only revived AOPA’s clubs, but also provides an opportunity to grow their membership, which is their plan for the future.