Optio Voluntary Car Service and Dial-a-bus

Who is eligible?

Elderly, frail or less mobile residents who are unable to access public transport, to get to appointments and access services they need.

About the Scheme

Across the Island there is a network of volunteer drivers who give their time freely, using their own cars to provide a door to door service. The service is available to support users to attend:

  • Medical appointments

  •  Hospital appointments/visits

  • Day Centres

  •  Memory clubs and activities

  • Visiting friends and social trips

  •  Shopping

(Unfortunately we are unable to take wheelchair users at the present time)

How to book a trip

Phone the Helpline on 522226 to book your trip. Journeys must be arranged in advance (at least 24hrs if possible).

The helpline is open from 8.30am for Dial-a-bus and 9 —4pm Monday—Thursday and 2.30pm on Fridays. There is an answer phone service for out of hour’s calls which will be dealt with promptly when the office reopens.

What will it cost?

There is a driver’s mileage charge of 40p per mile, reimbursed directly to the volunteer driver, who will provide you with a receipt for the cost of the trip. (A minimum charge of £2.50 per trip. (e.g. journey under 6 miles))

 Mileage costs are calculated from the driver’s home and return, not from the user’s address

There is no additional cost if you are accompanied by a carer or a friend. Please NoteIf your appointments are cancelled or arrangements changed, please let the Helpline know as soon as possible, otherwise there will be a charge for the driver’s mileage.

Wightbus Dial-a-bus booking service

Dial-a-bus provides a personal service for people with mobility difficulties. It offers door-to-door transport to Newport from:

  •  Cowes (Monday and Friday)

  •  East Cowes and Ryde (Monday)

  •  Freshwater (Tuesday)

  •  Bembridge, Sandown and Shanklin (Thursday)

  •  Ventnor (Friday)

The Isle of Wight Council’s Dial-a-bus has specially trained, friendly drivers, and the vehicles are all equipped to make them easy to board. Wheelchair users are welcome, but spaces are limited.

To book a seat on the bus, please ring the Helpline number on 522226.


  • Optio Leaflet

    Wed, 30 July 2008,

    Optio Leaflet in PDF format to download (please click on the blue link text above). Hard copies and alternative formats of this leaflet are also available. Please phone the Optio Helpline on 522226