Full Breakdown
Volunteer Shortage Threatens Meals on Wheels Jersey Amid Rising Fuel Costs
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Challenge: Recruiting Volunteers
Meals on Wheels Jersey, a delivery service that provides hot meals to islanders unable to prepare food themselves, is experiencing difficulty attracting new volunteers. The organisation, which serves roughly 100 people four days a week, reports that rising petrol prices are discouraging prospective drivers. Maureen Bougeard, the service’s secretary, explained that volunteers are asked to cover their own fuel expenses, and many who receive the invitation do not respond.
Funding and Operational Model
The charity received a £38,000 grant from the Jersey Community Foundation to support its meal-supply work. Despite this funding, the programme relies entirely on unpaid help. Bougeard noted that the organisation has more than 200 volunteers, most of whom are retired individuals who sometimes travel the length of the island twice in a single day to deliver meals.
Official Statements & Responses
Bougeard emphasized that the entire operation is volunteer-run and that there are no paid staff members. She highlighted the dedication of volunteers, many of whom are on modest pensions, yet continue to contribute “absolutely fabulous” service despite the financial strain of fuel costs. The charity is actively circulating information about the volunteer role, but the cost burden appears to be a significant barrier to recruitment.