Witney News - Council stays ‘on board’ with ‘Dial-a-Ride’

Council stays ‘on board’ with ‘Dial-a-Ride’

West Oxfordshire District Council has pledged its continuing support for the Octabus Dial-a-Ride service.

Dial-a-Ride is a door-to-door minibus service for people who find it difficult to use public transport, such as the elderly or disabled. The buses are designed for accessibility, which includes loading wheelchairs and drivers are trained to help people with mobility problems as well as being first aiders.

The service helps people gain access to work, social and leisure opportunities and last year in West Oxfordshire over 3,000 Dial-a-Ride journeys were made.

Cllr Jill Dunsmore, Cabinet Member for Communities said, “With the closure of so many Post Offices we are at a time when rural services are being especially hit hard. I am therefore pleased that we are supporting the continuation of the Dial-a-Ride service, which is a much-needed service in our rural District. It is a lifeline for those who find it difficult to travel on public transport and who might otherwise be isolated.”

Dial-a-Ride operates between 9 am and 5pm, Monday to Friday and is run by Walters Limousines.

There is a charge but the Council’s concessionary bus pass or transport tokens can be used. More information about the service is on www.westoxon.gov.uk and places can be booked by telephoning 01865 876176.

The Octabus Dial-a-Ride service is provided in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council and operates in Oxford City Council and the Vale of White Horse areas in addition to West Oxfordshire. The service does not provide journeys to social centres operated by Oxfordshire County Council or to hospitals for appointments as alternative travel support is available for these types of journeys.