This document sets out the procedures, terms and conditions for booking the Van operated by 2nd Acomb Scouts Group. Our van is available for use by other Scout groups and none for profit organisations.
- Van Capacity
The maximum seating capacity (including the driver) is 3. The driver and passengers must use seat belts at all times, unless they hold a medical exemption certificate.
- Making a Booking
2.1 Availability and bookings can be made through the following website: https://2ndacombscoutgroup.com/vehicle-bookings/booking-form/
2.2 Bookings require a donation to be made to 2nd Acomb Scouts Group in advance of the booking date. Details on how donations are made are provided on the booking website.
2.3 We reserve the right to decline, cancel or vary any booking with no liability accepted for any loss, financial or otherwise arising from any change. We will endeavour to provide 8 weeks’ notice of any alterations to bookings.
2.4 At the time of booking, you are required to provide the details of a named driver who is responsible for ensuring the policy and lending conditions are adhered to.
2.5 We reserve the right to require any driver to undertake a vehicle familiarisation and meet the required standards before any booking period can commence which normally comprises of a short on-road session and reversing manoeuvre.
2.6 Arrangements to collect keys should be made at least 72 hours in advance of booking via the transport team.
- General Terms and Conditions
3.1 Drivers must inspect the vehicle before and after each use to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy. In addition, any issues, defects or faults with the vehicle must be reported to the Transport Manager through the online checklist available at https://2ndacombscoutgroup.com/vehicle-bookings/vehicle-checklist/
3.2 The van will be provided with a full tank of fuel, and we operate a ‘full to full’ policy so must be return full at the end of the booking. Failure to return the minibus with a full tank of fuel will incur a charge of;
i) The cost of replacing the missing fuel and
ii) Penalty charge of 10 pence per litre of missing fuel
3.3 Smoking in the van is strictly forbidden by law.
3.4 The van can only be used in the UK.
3.5 The van must be returned in a clean and tidy condition.
3.6 The van must not carry more than 2 gas bottles at any one time. Equipment and luggage must be stored securely and within the maximum weight limit of 3.5 tonnes.
3.7 With the exception of assistance dogs, external users are not permitted to take animals in the van.
3.8 The Driver is responsible for maintaining correct oil and water levels and correct tyre pressures during the booking period.
3.9 The driver will be liable for the cost of replacing a tyre if it is damaged beyond repair due to kerbing or being driven on whilst flat or punctured.
- Fines and Prosecutions
4.1 Any fines incurred during the period of booking are responsibility of the driver. This includes but not limited to illegal parking or other infringements and all other charges such as tolls arising through the use of the vehicle.
4.2 Any prosecution of the driver arising from the use of the van will be the responsibility of the driver and/or booker. We will pass this information to the relevant authorities.
- Fuel
5.1 The van runs on diesel fuel.
5.2 You will be liable for the full repair costs and any engine damage resulting from the wrong type of fuel being used during the booking period.
- Insurance
6.1 Our insurance policy details are available on request by emailing your request to [email protected]
6.2 The van has fully comprehensive insurance with an excess charge of £100 for fire, damage or theft. External users are liable to pay the excess charge in the event of a claim relating to an accident, incident or damage during the period of the booking agreement.
6.3 The cost of repairs for any damage caused to the van and/or third parties as a result of the van being driven in a manner that voids our insurance policy will be met by the user.
6.4 Our insurance policy does not cover:
- Drivers under the age of 25
6.5 You must declare the following to the transport manager:
- Any medical conditions that require declaration as detailed by the DVLA
- You must declare any driving convictions including penalty points
- You must declare any non-motoring convictions
7. Breakdown Cover
7.1 The van is provided with breakdown cover. In the event of a breakdown, you need to report the breakdown to an authorised contact as detailed in the booking confirmation in order for the breakdown recovery unit to assist.
8. Speed Limits
8.1 Drivers should note that speed limits for minibuses are as follows:
| Road Type | Speed limit |
| Built up areas | 30 mph |
| Single carriageway roads | 50 mph |
| Dual carriageways | 60 mph |
| Motorways | 70 mph |
9. Accidents
9.1 In the event of an accident, the driver should comply with the statutory legal requirement however should not admit any liability. Immediately report the accident to the transport manager or nominated individual on the booking confirmation and follow the emergency procedures in Appendix 2 emergency procedures.
10. Cancellations
10.1 All cancellations must be made at least 8 weeks prior to the start of use, or you may lose your deposit.
11. Safety
11.1 Journeys should be planned in advance of departures and account for adequate rest stops to reduce driver fatigue.
11.2 Stopping on a motorway hard shoulder is classed as a near miss even where no accident occurred, planning journeys avoiding motorways where possible is advised. Near miss incidents should be reported through the online incident form at https://2ndacombscoutgroup.com/vehicle-bookings/vehicle-incident-report/
11.3 Drivers are required to brief passengers regarding hazards. A particular hazard for passengers is the trapping of hands and fingers in vehicle doors, this should be highlighted during the safety brief.