Free transport service helps vulnerable residents get their COVID-19 vaccines
Since the launch of the free transport offer, Shropshire Council and its partners have helped more than 200 Shropshire residents get to their vaccination appointments.
The aim of the free transport service is to support the countywide COVID-19 vaccination programme by helping clinically vulnerable Shropshire residents and those with a lack of personal transport capability, to attend their appointments.
The service has not just been limited to vaccine appointments in the county. The council and partners have helped Shropshire residents attend appointments at vaccination centres in Telford, Crewe and at the Black Country Museum.
Since its launch, 25 local organisations have volunteered their services so the free transport offer can be extended beyond the council’s own passenger fleet, and more Shropshire residents can be supported.
All vehicles will have appropriate ventilation, with strict infection control measures in place to ensure they are operated with the highest levels of public health safeguards.
Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, said:
“The rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination programme is imperative to fighting the virus and getting back to life as normal. To aid the success of the programme, we need to ensure our residents who have been invited for a vaccine can attend their appointment.
“We had our own fleet of vehicles available so it made sense to support residents who needed help to get to their vaccine appointments.
“The aim of this service was to remove cost, hassle and challenges for our vulnerable residents in getting their vaccines, and we’re thrilled that we’ve been able to help so many people so far.
“I’d also like to say a huge thank you on behalf of the council and those who have used the service to the many local organisations and community transport groups who have come forward to support this effort.
“If we can help you or someone you know get to your vaccine appointment, please get in touch by calling the council’s COVID-19 Helpline on 0345 678 9028 (option 0).”
Resident feedback
“I was absolutely thrilled with the service. I haven’t seen anybody since November and I couldn’t have asked for a better driver than Martin. He really is a top man, such a friendly chatty guy.”
“We were very impressed with the service provided. The transport arrived on time and got them to the centre in plenty of time, then waited for us to have their vaccinations. We’re both very grateful to the council for organising the transport.”
“Everything was great. The taxi arrived on time and the driver was a lovely man. I will be putting in a further request for transport assistance, when I require my second vaccination.”
Booking your transport
In order to get help, you must have had a letter inviting you for vaccination in Shropshire, and you must be unable to get there any other way. Subject to availability, Shropshire Council will be able to provide transport to help you get to your appointment and back.
If you or someone you know would benefit from the free transport offer, please contact the council’s COVID-19 Helpline on 0345 678 9028 and select option 0.
