Community Car Scheme
The community transport service provided by and for the residents of Bicknoller and neighbouring areas.
About Bicklifts | How is Bicklifts Funded? | What Journeys are eligible? | What Journeys are not eligible? | How does Bicklifts Operate? | How much does a Bicklift cost? | Who is the co-ordinator? | Would you like to help?
About Bicklifts
The BICKLIFTS social car scheme was set up in response to a need expressed by the local community. The scheme aims to overcome many of the shortcomings of current public transport services, particularly with respect to access by the frail and elderly. Bicklifts commenced operations in September 1999 and to date (February 2006) has made over 900 journeys. Somerset Travelpass holders enjoy a 50% discount on fares and the scheme has available a lightweight folding, but comfortable, wheelchair. All Bicklifts drivers have been CRB checked and carry a pictorial identity badge. The scheme holds public liability insurance.
The scheme tries to be as flexible as possible, but cannot cover every transport need. BICKLIFTS is not a substitute taxi service!
How is Bicklifts funded?
The scheme receives grants from Somerset County Council (SCC) and Bicknoller Parish Council. Running costs are met by fares from users. Drivers, all volunteers, are reimbursed running expenses on a "per mile" rate. Voluntary donations from users, friends and supporters are always welcome. The Travelpass concession is funded by West Somerset District Council and administered by SCC.
What journeys are eligible?
- Shopping, banking, collecting prescriptions etc.
- Social occasions, such as visiting relatives and friends
- Attendance at hospitals or clinics for which transport is not provide by other services
- Trips to and from Taunton and Bridgwater bus/train stations and local bus stops (from trips available only to mobile phone users - advise the co-ordinator if you need to borrow one).
What journeys are not eligible?
- Journeys to work or school
- Trips outside a 20 mile radius from Bicknoller shop
- Trips for which hospital transport services are available
How does Bicklifts operate?
You must be pre-registered with BICKLIFTS before making a booking (forms available from co-ordinator). When you need transport, contact the Co-ordinator and book your trip - stating the primary reason for the journey and giving the names of all passengers to be carried. Be considerate regarding the timing of calls and give at least 2 days notice (only under exceptional circumstances will bookings be accepted for trips less than 2 days ahead) The co-ordinator will confirm the availability of a driver and the fare. The co-ordinator will also be the final arbiter on any question regarding eligibility of the trip.
If a telephone answering machine is connected when you call, do not hang up. Leave your name, telephone number and details of the trip you wish to book. The co-ordinator will get back to you as soon as possible and confirm your travel arrangements.
If you have been issued with a disabled badge, bring it with you - it will help the driver to maximise your comfort and convenience. If you use a walking aid or wheelchair, advise the co-ordinator.
How much does a Bicklift cost?
Typical fares are listed in the table below. Sharing is encouraged and fares may be split between all passengers sharing the trip.
Typical return journey fares per trip
| Bicknoller (Residence) to:- | Fare "per passenger" | |||
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| Bicknoller (3 miles band) | £1.20 | £0.60 | £0.40 | £0.30 |
| Travelpass holder | £0.60 | £0.30 | £0.20 | £0.15 |
| Williton (7 miles band) | £2.70 | £1.35 | £0.90 | £0.70 |
| Travelpass holder | £1.35 | £0.63 | £0.45 | £0.35 |
| Watchet (11 miles band) | £4.50 | £2.25 | £1.50 | £1.20 |
| Travelpass holder | £2.25 | £1.12 | £0.75 | £0.60 |
| Minehead (23 miles band) | £9.00 | £4.50 | £3.00 | £2.30 |
| Travelpass holder | £4.50 | £2.25 | £1.50 | £1.15 |
| Taunton (29 miles band) | £11.40 | £5.70 | £3.80 | £2.90 |
| Travelpass holder | £5.70 | £2.85 | £1.90 | £1.45 |
| Bridgwater (33 miles band) | £13.20 | £6.60 | £4.40 | £3.30 |
| Travelpass holder | £6.60 | £3.30 | £2.20 | £1.65 |
Typical fares are based on "drivers" mileage bands without detours. Extra mileage resulting from detours requested by passengers is charged at 40p per mile. There is no discount for single (one-way) trips, but no extra charge for additional passengers picked up from same start point or along direct route. "Passengers producing a valid Somerset TravelPass pay half fare (balance is recovered from SCC). All fares payable to driver.
Who is the co-ordinator?
Mrs Rose Fish, telephone (Bicklifts Mobile) 07790 959605
Would you like to help?
If you would like to help with operation of the scheme, either as a driver or administrator, please inform the Co-ordinator.