More Than Just Transport
Driving Miss Daisy offers a personalised companion driving service that supports Our Bench guests to enjoy their holiday fully and independently.
Based locally in the New Forest, Sam and her team provide far more than transport. They offer companionship, reassurance and practical assistance, tailored to each guest and their individual needs.
For some guests, the journey itself can feel daunting. With Driving Miss Daisy, travel becomes calm, comfortable and supported from the very beginning.
Door to Door Support
If you would benefit from help getting to and from your holiday, Driving Miss Daisy can collect you directly from home.
Support can include:
- Assistance with luggage
- Calm, unhurried travel
- Friendly conversation and reassurance
- smooth, familiar arrival at Our Bench
Because the team know our cottages well, arrival feels relaxed rather than stressful. The journey becomes part of your holiday, not an obstacle to overcome. You can see Driving Miss Daisy helping guests arrive at Bench Cottage, a photo of the team and getting ready to take guests out for the day at Garden Bench in the photos below.
Driving Miss Daisy Outside Bench Cottage
Driving Miss Daisy Team
Garden Bench with Driving Miss Daisy parked ready for guests
Driving Miss Daisy also works in partnership with other teams across the UK. This means longer journeys and cross region travel are very much possible. Guests can be supported seamlessly from door to door, reducing pressure on family members and carers. This unique service is known as a "Daisy Chain".
Supported Days Out in the New Forest
During your stay, you may wish to explore the New Forest and surrounding areas with extra support.
Sam or a member of her team can act as both driver and guide, helping plan outings around:
- Accessible routes
- Quieter visiting times
- Individual interests
- Suitable coffee stops and local highlights
Each outing is unhurried and entirely guest led. For visits to attractions, support may include helping to push a manual wheelchair, assisting over thresholds, and offering practical help throughout the day. Support is always discreet, respectful and at your own pace.
Driving Miss Daisy Story
From Driving Miss Daisy's facebook page
Confidence and Companionship
For many guests, companionship is just as important as physical assistance.
Driving Miss Daisy offers the opportunity for independent adventures while still feeling safe and supported.
Special Occasions and Meaningful Days
Companion driving can be especially valuable for family celebrations, events or important gatherings.
Having someone alongside you to assist with mobility, toileting or navigating unfamiliar spaces allows you to be fully present in the moment. It also eases the pressure on loved ones and carers, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the occasion, and could even offer some respite time as you head off on different adventures during your stay.
“Coffee with the locals – so nice to meet new people, to give my loved ones a break and learn more about the local area. The freedom of a solo adventure whilst I am on holiday is something I thought was only a dream.”
A Service That Aligns With Our Values
At Our Bench, we value services that promote dignity, independence and inclusion. Driving Miss Daisy aligns beautifully with our ethos, offering guests the confidence to explore, connect and enjoy their stay on their own terms. Sam and her team are approachable, experienced and genuinely committed to making each guest’s holiday memorable for the right reasons.
How to Arrange Support
Guests can contact the local Driving Miss Daisy New Forest South West team directly to discuss individual needs and availability. If you would prefer, we are very happy to talk this through with you and help make introductions ahead of your stay.
Still not sure what Driving Miss Daisy can offer, check out their video.
Last updated: March 2026