Coronavirus: Transport programme helps nearly 300 vulnerable residents get their vaccinations against COVID-19
The free transport programme launched by Shropshire Council, that aims to help vulnerable residents attend their vaccination appointments, has been a huge success, with nearly 300 people transported to their vaccination appointments so far.
Since its launch in January 2021, over 280 vulnerable residents have been transported to their COVID-19 vaccination appointment.
The service was initially launched utilising Shropshire Council’s own fleet of vehicles. Since then, 25 local bus and taxi operators have volunteered their time free of charge to help expand the offer and support more people.
The free transport programme has also helped 283 housebound patients have their vaccine at home by using Shropshire Council’s vehicle fleet to transport staff from Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt hospital to safely deliver their jabs.
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.
Over a three-week period, 5,000 passenger miles were travelled to enable vulnerable residents to get their COVID-19 vaccinations. This is the equivalent of travelling from Shrewsbury to Las Vegas, Nevada!
Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, said:
“The rollout of the vaccines against COVID-19 to the most vulnerable people in Shropshire has been very successful to date, with 97% of over 70s already having their first jab.
“The free transport offer, with the support of the many local bus and taxi operators who volunteered to help, has enabled the most vulnerable in the county to receive their vaccinations and, we hope, peace of mind that they now have substantial protection.
“I’d like to thank all council staff, partners, local organisations and community groups who have worked so hard to help us protect Shropshire residents.”
All vehicles have appropriate ventilation, with strict infection control measures in place to ensure they are operated with the highest levels of public health safeguards.
The council and its partners are now planning to provide transport for vulnerable people to receive the second dose of their vaccines against COVID-19.
To complement the free transport offer, the council also organised shuttle services in Ludlow and Shrewsbury with its partners, Minsterley Motors and Arriva respectively.
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.
