Going the extra mile: how patient transport volunteers support people when it matters most

Patient transport volunteering is about far more than getting someone from one place to another. It is about reliability, reassurance and helping people feel supported during moments that can be stressful, tiring or uncertain. The stories of David McMillan and Graham Mortimer show just how much of an impact that support can have. 

David McMillan has been involved in patient transport for more than 20 years, first taking on driving while working week on and week off on the local Stena Line ferries, and continuing long after retiring from seafaring. For David, the role has always been about helping people in a practical way at a difficult time in their lives. He values the company, the conversations and the chance to give something back to society through a role that meets people where they are and helps them get where they need to be. 

In Dumfries, Graham Mortimer has shown the same depth of commitment over around 12 years of volunteering. He is known for going the extra mile, whether that means long journeys to take oncology patients to Edinburgh or Glasgow for treatment, waiting for hours so they can be driven safely home or continuing to support patients during the Covid years when that support was especially critical. His contribution has extended beyond driving too, from helping induct new drivers to stepping into co-ordination and leadership responsibilities when needed. 

Together, David and Graham represent the compassion and dependability that sit at the centre of patient transport volunteering. Their stories show that every mile travelled can also carry dignity, conversation, calm and a sense that someone is there to help.