Barnsley transport service described as 'lifesaver'

“It’s bad enough dealing with the impact of cancer without the stress of using public transport or being unable to park. We should applaud Weston Park Cancer Charity’s supporters for the transport service’s impact.”

Rusty, from Cudworth in Barnsley, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in February 2022. He then went through six months of hormone treatment, followed by four weeks of radiotherapy at Weston Park. But an anxious and challenging situation was made more manageable by our free transport.

The service operates twice daily from Oakwell Stadium to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. It dropped Rusty off ‘exactly where he needed to be’, alleviating the burden of travel for his radiotherapy sessions.

For Rusty and other passengers on the service, our transport also means more than getting from A to B.

“Not travelling alone, for me, has been a real plus,” said Rusty – real name James – who is from West London.

“There is real empathy. Your fellow passengers are very much in the same boat as you. But the conversation is mostly positive and varied. It helps you not to dwell on your situation.

“Access to Weston Park is simple and easy, with the minibus dropping you off exactly where you need to be. The volunteer drivers will always guide you to where you need to go. They will run you to the Hallamshire and Northern General Hospitals if you need it.”

Rusty reserved special praise for our wonderful volunteer drivers. The drivers devote their time to help us provide free, safe travel to and from appointments.

Rusty said: “The drivers are lovely, coming from a wide range of backgrounds.

“They are interesting people. They are compassionate about the situation their passengers face and often go the extra mile for you.

“If anyone should ask me about the service, I would wholeheartedly recommend it. It is solid gold and I am so grateful for it!”

Emma Clarke, our Chief Executive Officer, said: “I’m so thrilled to hear about Rusty’s experience.

“We are proud to provide such a vital service for the people of our region. Without transport, people can at times decline treatment which could change or save their life. Travel costs can also run into hundreds of pounds for five return taxi fares each week.

“Our transport is there for anybody who needs it in Barnsley, Rotherham and Chesterfield. If free, safe travel could benefit you or a loved one, get in touch with our team to book a seat on our bus.”