LOOKING for a New Year’s resolution that’ll make a real difference?

The Bus Buddies project, funded by the Big Lottery Fund, is recruiting volunteers across the county to help people needing extra support to use buses, trains and dial-a-ride services.

The project - run by Pembrokeshire Association of Community Transport Operators (Pacto) - enables people to attend a doctor's appointment, choose their own groceries, or meet up with a friend or relative – simple activities that most of us take for granted.

People wanting to use the service may have difficulty in walking, poor sight or hearing or be nervous after a fall. They may have learning difficulties, or be anxious about travelling alone.

Whatever the need, Bus Buddies aims to get people out and about, and help them regain independence.

“It may just be the easiest way to make the biggest difference to someone,” said Emma Lewis, who manages the scheme.

“Just sharing a journey, being there for someone, maybe pushing their shopping trolley or sharing a cuppa with them, could make the difference between someone getting out of their home this week or not.

"It’s a simple as that.”

Volunteers will also be offered more specialist training if they wish, get some work experience and be part of a team making a big difference in a small way.

To find our more, and help make a big difference to someone else’s life, call Emma or Angela on 01437 770 119 or email busbuddies@pacto.org.uk