What happens when the fuel runs out

DEAR MP/Councillor/Officer,

We feel it necessary to inform you that the current fuel crisis (not fully recognised by the government) is now causing havoc to the essential services we provide to our elderly and disabled members. To date we have cancelled over 40 dial-a-ride journeys for doctors appointments, vaccinations and hospital appointments, and in addition we are having to cancel day trips, which were the first opportunity many of our members had the chance to get out and about since the pandemic.

Our drivers, booking staff and the whole organisation are totally frustrated that we are unable to provide the service that we are renowned for. We have no priority for fuel purchase nor, it would appear, do the emergency services.

We are still being told there is no emergency, but yesterday we had nine buses that were unable to obtain fuel which is making the situation even worse. If this continues we will have to close down. The added problem is our drivers are having problems purchasing fuel to get to work.

In the year 2000, when we had a similar situation, we were helped by being issued with passes to purchase fuel as a priority operation, our services were hardly affected. This time we just seem to be in chaos, we are having members pleading with us to get them to their hospital or doctors and we just can’t do it. All we are told is that there is no shortage!

WE NEED URGENT ACTION NOW! At this actual time we have only been able to purchase 47 ltr. of fuel therefore we are having to phone people to cancel their transport tomorrow, most of which is important.

We are cancelling another 27, which includes a Day Excursion.

Fred Rule, Trustee, Keep

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