Delivery Driver or Van Helper

• Food Train (Scottish Borders)

• VO106005

About this event

Volunteer Delivery Drivers and Van Helpers support older people across the Scottish Borders by helping to
deliver groceries directly to members’ homes. Working as part of a friendly team, volunteers assist with
loading and unloading shopping, delivering orders safely and efficiently, and providing a friendly face and
regular contact that helps members maintain their independence and stay connected to their community.

Volunteering details

Volunteer Delivery Drivers and Van Helpers play a vital role in supporting older people across the Scottish
Borders to remain independent by delivering their weekly groceries directly to their homes. Working as part
of a friendly team, volunteers help ensure shopping is delivered safely, accurately, and with care.
The role involves assisting with loading and unloading shopping at the store and at members’ homes,
making sure all items are handled carefully and orders are organised correctly. Volunteers also help deliver
groceries to the door and provide additional practical support where needed, such as putting shopping
away, unpacking boxes, and helping with simple tasks like opening jars.
A key part of the role is providing friendly, respectful contact with members during deliveries, offering a
positive social interaction alongside practical help. Volunteers support the safe transport and accurate
delivery of groceries, following Food Train procedures at all times. Through this support, volunteers help
reduce isolation and ensure older people can continue living independently and comfortably in their own
homes

Experience required

The role is open to beginners but drivers must hold a full UK driving license and be willing to drive a van.

Travel details

Meeting point is from 9.30am at Tesco Galashiels.

Travel expenses

Travel expenses are paid for bus fairs and fuel expenses. This is usually paid directly into your bank
account but cash can be provided on prior agreement.

• About
• Location
• Notes

Date

30 June 2026

Support

Training details

Volunteers receive a full induction covering all aspects of the role, including safe handling of groceries,
delivery procedures, supporting members in their homes, and Food Train policies and expectations. This
ensures volunteers feel confident and understand how to carry out their duties safely and respectfully.
New volunteers are supported through a taster session alongside an experienced Volunteer Delivery Driver
and Van Helper, allowing them to learn in a practical, hands-on environment. Ongoing support is provided
by the Food Train team and fellow volunteers, who are always available to offer guidance, answer
questions, and provide encouragement throughout the volunteering journey.

Taster

New volunteers are invited to attend a taster session where they are paired with an experienced Volunteer
Delivery Driver and Van Helper. During the session, volunteers will get a first-hand look at how deliveries
are carried out, including loading the van, handling groceries safely, and supporting deliveries at members’
homes.
Volunteers will observe and take part in key aspects of the role such as delivering shopping to the door,
offering friendly interaction with members, and assisting with practical tasks like carrying bags and
helping to put items away where appropriate. The taster session provides a supportive, informal
introduction to the role and is a chance to ask questions, understand what the role involves, and decide
whether it is the right fit.

Restrictions

Minimum age: 16

The roles require an adequate level of physical fitness due to loading, unloading, and carrying boxes full of
groceries sometimes up or down flights of stairs.

Availability

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Frequency & commitment

Staff are available for support during the working day and are on hand to answer any queries. Support can be flexible based on need.

Volunteers (aged 16-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Find out more

This volunteering opportunity is also advertised across Scottish Borders.

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