Transport 
 

Background

In early 2025 a working group created by WHCPB (Woking Healthy Community Partnership Board) brought together a number of charity and voluntary organisations to address the challenge of loneliness and isolation across the Borough of Woking. It quickly became apparent that whilst a significant number of activities and events are hosted regularly across the Borough, the underlying challenge was actually the availability and access to transport.

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Through a collaboration between local voluntary groups, Woking Community Transport, and the Woking Healthy Communities Partnership Board (WHCPB), a community transport bus was made available for use by voluntary sector organisations.

The bus will help groups transport clients to events, theatre visits, leisure centres, care homes and many other community activities, addressing one of the key barriers residents face when trying to stay socially connected.

The vehicle was donated by Woking Community Transport and the North West Surrey Alliance. Silver Friends was selected to act as custodian of the bus, overseeing its upkeep and administering the booking system on behalf of the community. And so... the pink "Buddy Bus" was born! 

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Why it matters

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Transport is a major barrier for many older and isolated residents. The Buddy Bus helps people access social groups, health services, and community life.

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What we deliver

At Buddy Bus, we are passionate about bringing people together and making a real difference within our community. Our service is designed to reduce loneliness and isolation by helping older people stay socially connected, active, and engaged.

We support independence by providing safe and reliable transport, enabling individuals to access appointments, activities, and social events with confidence.

Through Buddy Bus, we also help connect people to vital local services while strengthening community links and creating meaningful friendships along the way.
 

​Support the Buddy Bus

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We are seeking corporate partners to help support the Buddy Bus service by funding essential costs such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, volunteer drivers, and subsidised journeys for those most in need.

By partnering with us, your organisation will have the opportunity to demonstrate meaningful social value, increase local visibility, engage staff in a community-focused initiative, and be recognised as a leader making a genuine difference across Woking.

Even a small investment can have a significant impact — enabling hundreds of journeys, improving access to vital services and social activities, and helping older and isolated residents feel connected, supported, and valued within their community.

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Get Involved - If you would like to support the project, discuss sponsorship options, or explore partnerships, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please click the link below to contact Sandra Smook for more information.

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Become a member 

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Non-profit organisations are invited to become part of the Buddy Bus community initiative by joining our growing membership network and gaining access to the vehicle for their own transport needs. Whether it’s helping people attend activities, supporting vulnerable individuals to access appointments, or enabling community outings and events, Buddy Bus is here to help organisations make an even greater impact.

By becoming a member, you are not only accessing reliable community transport — you are becoming part of something truly special that is bringing people together, reducing isolation, and strengthening connections across Woking. Together, we can create a more inclusive, caring, and connected community for everyone.

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For further information on becoming a Buddy Bus member organisation, all enquiries can be directed to Sandra Smook by clicking the link below.​

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Become a volunteer driver 

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Become a Buddy Bus volunteer driver and help make a real difference in the lives of people within our community. By giving just a little of your time, you can help older and isolated residents regain confidence, independence, and social connection through safe and friendly transport.

More than just driving, you’ll be providing companionship, kindness, and a reason for someone to smile each day. Volunteering with Buddy Bus is a rewarding opportunity to meet wonderful people, be part of a caring community initiative, and know that every journey you make is helping to reduce loneliness and bring people together.

Join us and become part of something truly meaningful that is changing lives across Woking. Please contact Sandra Smook on the link below for further information.