Last week I received a request from one of our members to clarify the 'lifts to and from' situation.
Over the years when the petrol was fairly cheap and the lifts were very often reciprocated people just accepted gems to drop someone off at East Midlands airport.
Now things have changed a bit.

First of all, even if you get dropped off, the airport authorities charge you £1 so please make sure you are aware of that so that the driver does not have to pay for this.

Secondly the fuel prices have gone up and thirdly the group has grown so the reciprocity of giving people lifts to the airport may not be so frequently any more.

It was suggested to get some clarity on how to deal with this situation.

I propose the following:

1. Before you accept an offer of a lift make sure that you are aware if you need to pay for mileage as well as gems or if you are OK with just the gems.
2. I checked with some companies and they suggested 15p per mile for a small car and 20p for an estate and 7 seater. The mileage to East Midlands airport is 27 miles working out at £4 for a small car and £5.50 for a large car.

The main point is that you are clear on what you have to offer so that it is transparent and no confusion arises.
If someone sends an email out to the group asking for a lift, please reply and let them know what your option will be, either option 1 just gems or option 2 money and gems

I hope this makes sense and that you feel comfortable with this solution.

Karina