FINNIE PLEASED WITH FREE HOSPITAL VISITOR TRANSPORT

Written by Ross Finnie on Fri 24th Oct 2008

FINNIE PLEASED WITH FREE HOSPITAL VISITOR TRANSPORT

West of Scotland Liberal Democrat MSP Ross Finnie is pleased by the new scheme to hospital visitors in Renfrewshire free evening hospital visitor transport.

The scheme was launched on Monday October 20th and will make hospital visiting easier for the relatives of patients in the Royal Alexandria Hospital and other acute hospitals in the board area. Using council transport, all local residents are eligible, but the service will prioritise people who are over 60, disabled or those in low income.

Commenting Mr Finnie said:

"I am pleased by this new scheme as it will provide easy access for many who struggle to visit loved ones in hospital due to access, transport problems and cost.

"Elderly relatives will also find it mush easier to visit patients in hospital thanks to this new scheme, where in the past many elderly residents would find it impossible to visit relatives at night.

"I hope this pilot scheme turns into a regular service, as it will provide a much needed service for hospital visitors all over Renfrewshire.

Ends

Notes to Editors

A partnership between Renfrewshire Community Health Partnership, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Renfrewshire Council, WRVS and Community Transport Glasgow. Using council transport, all local residents are eligible, but the service will prioritise people who are over 60, disabled or on low incomes.

The service will be piloted between now and March 31 next year and passenger take-up evaluated by a steering group.

To use the service, clients phone a booking hotline 0845 128 4027 (the line is open every afternoon) and transport can be booked up to one week in advance.

Clients will have to register and provide some information to ensure that those who really need the service are given priority. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence and in compliance with the Data protection act.

Clients will have to give their address, which hospital they want to visit and what time visiting begins and ends. Pick up time will be confirmed by telephone and clients will be taken from their front door to a drop off point in the hospital. They will be given a time for the return journey, and be taken back home after visiting.

For more information contact NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Communications on 0141 201 4429