10/08/2026
We were delighted to be able to nominate one of our volunteer drivers, David Judd, as a "Hidden Hero" with the brilliant Room to Reward scheme, and for him to be chosen to win a free hotel break!
We also want to give a big shout out to his wife, Pauline, who is equally as obliging, kind, thoughtful. Pauline volunteers in the SWAN office helping the team with admin tasks, and also accompanies David on journeys as a passenger assistant for those with additonal needs. Together they make a huge impact in their community - thank you, both!
Here's what we wrote for David's nomination on why we think he really is a true "Hidden Hero":
It is with great pride that we would like to nominate David Judd, who has been volunteering as a driver in our community transport scheme, SWAN Transport, since May 2024.
David has become one of those extraordinary volunteers every charity hopes to find; someone who reliably and happily gives their time, compassion and energy without ever expecting anything in return.
SWAN volunteer drivers don’t just drive people from A to B, and David is proof of this: he gives his passengers confidence and patience, with reassurance that there’s always someone to talk to who won’t judge or mock their experiences. He has reassured worried passengers heading to the RUH for chemotherapy, waited patiently for passengers when they didn’t know how long their appointments may be, assisted those who needed a bit of extra help with their balance by lending an arm to get them to their door, and supported those with learning difficulties and sensory needs by making them feel safe and cared for whilst keeping their dignity and enabling their independence.
For many, journeys with SWAN are the difference between attending a vital hospital appointment or missing it, between remaining connected to the outside world or becoming isolated, and between facing the day alone or sharing it with a friendly, familiar face. David instinctively understands the importance of his volunteer role and has never let anyone down; he has never reacted to odd requests or batted an eyelid at peculiar habits or behaviours some passengers may display - you know he is a reliable and safe driver when transporting individuals with additional needs.
He is always one of the first to offer us help, agreeing to additional journeys whenever he can, frequently at short notice, and whomever the passenger and whatever their needs. His willingness to step in means our passengers are never left without the transport they desperately rely on. He never sees an extra journey as an inconvenience, only another opportunity to help someone who needs it. His commitment helps SWAN create a lasting impact across our community.
One of his regular passengers who lives with dementia has particularly benefited from David's kindness. He has built a trusting relationship with her, treating her with exceptional patience, dignity and warmth. He notices the little things that others might overlook and is able to share feedback with our team about any changes he has observed, helping us better understand her needs and ensuring she receives the best possible support. His care extends far beyond the journey itself, showing genuine concern for her wellbeing long after she has reached her destination.
On top of his voluntary driving duties, David will throw his hand to anything we need help with, be it manning a stand to help recruit new volunteers, taking a fellow volunteer to the hospital, or attending workshops to give his point of view and benefit community research.
His compassion is felt throughout the entire Radstock community; as well as volunteering with SWAN he is heavily involved with the local library, family history research group, is Vice Chair of the Bath Probus group, and gets involved with many town council organised events. Across his large repertoire, every person he meets is greeted with a smile, every conversation is met with genuine interest, and every task is delivered with respect and reliability.
Many of the people SWAN support are older, isolated or living with health conditions, and for some, David is the only conversation they have with someone that day. He patiently listens, offers reassurance and simply treats them as an equal.
David is truly special because he never seeks recognition. He volunteers because he genuinely wants to make life better for others and enjoys the social aspects of the role. He is not only an exceptional volunteer, but also an exceptional human! Since joining SWAN in 2024, he has made a huge impact on the lives of countless passengers, brought comfort to those facing difficult times and strengthened our entire community through his selfless service.
We cannot think of anyone more deserving to be recognised through Room to Reward.
Thank you, David!
