Communities 1st

Communities 1st are a charity that operates across Hertsmere and St Albans districts.  We provide accessible, affordable door-to-door transport for people with mobility problems; thereby promoting better access to healthcare, greater community participation and increased social inclusion.

Community Car Scheme

A scheme for people who are unable to use public transport to get to community facilities or medical appointments. This may be because of mobility problems or other special needs.  The Car Scheme operates in across Hertsmere, specifically in Borehamwood, Elstree, Potters Bar, Bushey, Bushey Heath, Well End, Radlett and Shenley.  A charge of 60p a mile is made for each journey to cover volunteer expenses. We have volunteer drivers who use their own cars.  Folded wheelchairs can be taken in most cars, but passengers must be able to transfer from wheelchair to car.

A wheelchair accessible vehicle with driver can also be booked which has space for one wheelchair user and up to three passengers. Carers are welcome.  Costs for these vehicles vary.  Please call to discuss.

The Community Car scheme is for people who want to:

• attend medical appointments
• take part in community activities
• attend an exercise class
• visit friends or relatives
• take up a new interest
• volunteer
• go to the library
• learn a new skill
• go to the hairdressers

THREE WORKING DAYS notice is needed.

Shopper Scheme

Our Shopper Scheme is a door-to-door service for people with mobility problems who have difficulty using public transport, and want to go to their local supermarket.  People are collected from their homes by an accessible minibus and taken to their local supermarket for about an hour’s shopping and then taken home.  All Shopper Bus Trips are charged at £3 each way or £6 return and £1 each way for carers.  The scheme operates in Borehamwood, Elstree, Potters Bar, Bushey, Bushey Heath, Well End, Radlett and Shenley.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Hire

Our wheelchair accessible minibus and vehicles are available for hire to groups either with or without a driver. The spacious, low floor minibus gives passengers easy access, and a comfortable journey. There are seats for up to 14 passengers. Manual wheelchairs can be secured inside the bus, if the passenger is able to transfer. The bus lowers at the back allowing those in wheelchairs access via a ramp.  There is space available for 2 – 4 wheelchair users, who need to remain in their wheelchairs.

Cost

Cars & MPVs £0.60/mile (some local fixed rate journeys), Minibuses + driver £15/hr + £1.00/mile (can be offset by fuel purchase), Shopper trips – £6.00 return (+£2.00 for carers)