Lift offer, I don't know what to say/do

[Anonymousemouses]

I'm pretty socially awkward and have made lots of uncomfortable mistakes in my 54 years, so am completely clueless here, and don't want to say anything that may offend, or seem rude by not doing anything.

My 13 year old currently catches a bus to school and home. They're in year 9.

The bus isn't perfect (I've got a horrible feeling the service will be withdrawn in July, as they've had lots of complaints due to being incredibly late, going the wrong direction and occasionally not running at all).

Despite this it's convenient as near to us and the only service that goes to near their school.

We also currently get free bus rides as DH works for a bus company, but this will end next month, when the company leaves our area, making DH and everyone else redundant (also leaving us with financial worries).

DC has a lovely set of friends and one lives near us. The mother has given DC a lift home the last couple of days, as she goes past us, which is incredibly kind.

I don't know whether to offer petrol money and if so how much? I can't reciprocate as I don't drive and DH works shifts at the moment, sometimes starting at 4am, next week starting at 1pm.

Any ideas would be gratefully received.

I think don’t stress about it. She’s offered because she’s coming that way and doesn’t mind.

As long as DC still gets the bus sometimes, and doesn’t start presuming this mum will give a lift (or ask for it), I think it’s fine.

depends on distance but I imagine £3-4 a mile should cover it if you want to pay the full cost

I’d buy her something to say thank you, a small gesture of appreciation. ( flowers or wine or chocs)
Id never dream of taking petrol money for giving a child a seat in my car that was literally driving past their house.

£3-4 per mile? You’d get about 50p if claiming through work! Maybe send a bottle of wine but if you’d like an actual arrangement then I’d ask her how much she wants and if she’s prepared to do it.

I would gladly accept the lift offer. Offer petrol money and if they refuse, give small thank you gifts every so often. If it’s long term, check in regularly that it’s still convenient.

Thank you. I can't offer wine as I'm pretty sure they don't drink alcohol, chocolates is a good idea (presumably vegan ones would be safer?)

I worry if I offer money she might think I'm assuming she will do it, and that's not my intention at all, she just picked DC up at the bus stop, I'd hate her to think I expect it.

I'll get chocolates first then ask if she wants some money if it happens regularly.