FAQs | Mearns Minibus Link

Frequently Asked Questions

How many passengers can the minibus take?

13, plus a driver. If a wheelchair is being used, then that number reduces as some seats are taken out to accommodate the chair.

Please note that the front two seats may not be suitable for elderly people or those with mobility isues.

Who is this service for?

Local community groups, schools, and individuals with mobility issues going to medical appointments, or to and from respite care.

What area do you cover?

We operate within Kincardine & Mearns. We can go outside this area during a run, but the pickup has to be in K&M. Groups who hire the bus and use their own driver can go anywhere during their booking.

How does booking work?

Contact us to enquire about availability, ideally with at least a few days’ notice. We will put a call out to our volunteers, let you know when we have a driver, and confirm your booking.

Can you guarantee transport?

Transport is subect to us having an available volunteer driver. We will always do our very best to accommodate requests, but as our pool of drivers is currently quite small we cannot guarantee it.

How do I pay for the minibus hire and how is the charge worked out?

Drivers note the beginning and end numbers on the odometer for each run, and the charge is worked out from that mileage. An invoice will be sent, usually by email, in the first week of the following month.

Can you do transport for Christmas nights out?

No, unless it’s for a community group. That would be classed as a commercial/private hire, and we are not licenced for that.

Are you the same people as Mearns and Coastal Healthy LIving Network?

No, we are separate organisations, and we do not have an office at 44 High Street, Laurencekirk. MCHLN used to share an office with the then minibus operators Mearns Area Partnership. However, MAP no longer run the service and no longer share that office. We are a different organisation with a different bus, and not connected with MAP.

Can a group use their own driver for the minibus?

Yes, providing they have a current MiDAS certificate and a valid driving licence. We can provide MiDAS training, if given some notice to arrange it.

How does our group driver get the minibus and keys?

One of our trustees will arrange to meet the driver at Mearns Academy, Laurencekirk to hand over the bus. Same on the return.

Can the bus be brought to our group driver?

No, your driver must pick up the bus from Mearns Academy car park, Laurencekirk. However, arrangements can be made to pick it up at a time that suits, such as the evening before a hire. It must also be returned to Laurencekirk.

Can I become a volunteer and what are the requirements?

We’d be delighted for you to join us. Volunteers have to do MiDAS training, which is free and only takes a few hours at most. If you are 70+ then a medical certificate is also required. Volunteers are usually called on to help once or twice a month.