Last updated on 9 September 2025
Chessington & Hook Voluntary Support (CHVS) is looking for friendly volunteer drivers to help less mobile members of our community get to medical, social, and essential appointments when no other help is available.
This is one of the most flexible volunteering roles you’ll find – no fixed hours, no pressure. Whether you can help once a week or once a month, every offer of time makes a difference.
Once you’re signed up, you’ll join their drivers’ WhatsApp group. Each weekday morning, the CHVS office volunteers post requests for help. If you’re free, just reply via WhatsApp or give the office a call.
You’ll be able to claim mileage and parking expenses. Most clients offer a small donation per journey to help with running costs – just keep a note of it.
Why volunteer with CHVS?
-
You’ll be making a real difference to someone’s day.
-
You’ll meet lovely people in your local community.
-
They host social events for volunteers – think afternoon tea and festive lunches!
Patricia Bamford, chair of CHVS and a volunteer since 1988, told us: “As a long-established local charity, the aim of CHVS is to support and help the elderly and vulnerable in Chessington, Hook and Malden Rushett to maintain their independent lifestyle. We offer a limited but varied range of services, and volunteers in personal contact with clients are DBS checked.
“Providing a little support when we can is enriching for both parties and makes a real difference in our local community. We would welcome new volunteers, both drivers and in the office, to become part of our valuable and friendly team. Volunteers make a real difference, even if it’s just once or twice a month. If we can share the load, it becomes lighter for everyone.”
Volunteer Sue Ansari, Councillor for Hook and Chessington North and Deputy Mayor, says: “I work two mornings per month in the office at the Hook Centre for this wonderful charity. I love the connection it gives me to our senior citizens and other volunteers who work tirelessly driving members to and from appointments or to their activities, which are a lifeline for people. In my role as disability advocate for Kingston, I would very much like to see this voluntary service in every part of our borough, benefitting our most vulnerable residents.”
About CHVS
CHVS is a registered charity, active since 1981, run entirely by volunteers. Their mission is simple: to lend a hand when others can’t.
CHVS can provide help with the following:
-
Transport to medical appointments (doctor, dentist, hospital, etc.).
-
Transport to social activities (Phoenix Club, church groups, hairdressers, etc.).
-
Help to get essential shopping (either with or without you).
-
Collection of prescriptions from the chemist.
-
Occasional minor DIY/repair jobs (changing a light bulb, etc.).
CHVS relies on their clients giving a small donation each time they receive help to cover running costs. They also organise a couple of social gatherings each year for clients and volunteers to help build connection and community. Their office is in the Hook Centre, open Monday to Friday, 9am-12 noon (except bank holidays). Outside those hours, just leave them a message.
Interested?
Call Chessington & Hook Voluntary Support on 020 8397 6298, email chessingtonvolunteers@gmail.com or send a message via Facebook – they’d love to hear from you!