Weardale Community Transport was set up in 2005 by the Weardale Community Partnership in response to a locally identified need for accessible, flexible transport. We operate a “not for profit” service for residents of Weardale, to bridge gaps in services which may not be provided by public transport services and commercial operators in the area. We are not a replacement for these services but rather, a compliment. We operate currently on a “section 19” licence, which means that in order to use our vehicles you have to be a “member” of WCT. This is a one-off charge of £5.00 for an organisation and £2.50 for an individual.

Enquiries about becoming a member or booking the vehicles can be made on 01388 528777.

However, WCT is not just about running the community buses, we are involved in the development and delivery of several other projects.

1.Community Transport: Three buses which can be hired by the communities of Weardale, either with a driver or on a self drive basis (with a current MiDAS Certificate). Buses are wheelchair accessible and carry up to 14 passengers. The buses are maintained to a very high safety standard by Durham County Council and we operate under the code of conduct stipulated by the DfT for mini buses. Our drivers are all CRB checked and trained to the standard required by the Community Transport Assocation. Trevor Hodgeon is qualified as a trainer for MIDAS qualification and "manual handling" available to schools, clubs and groups which wish to have the freedom of providing their own driver or for driving their own transport.

2.Access to Health; This project will look at access to Primary Health Care. We hope to work closely with the Community Hospitals in Stanhope, Barnard Castle, the MS Society and local surgery.

3.Volunteering Opportunities: We are always looking to increase our pool of Volunteer Drivers. We provide full training and on-going support, plus we are able to pay travel expenses. To find out more, please contact 01388 528777