Hospital transport alternatives

[Jennymary]

Mum has lots of hospital appts, always now on hospital transport, about three weeks ago when she had one the home where she now lives didn't have anyone available to go with her so my sister went, the appt was as 2.00, they didn't get back to mum's care home till 7.00, mum has another appt this week and the care home staff have suggested using a taxi to stop all the waiting around and to stop mum getting anxious (last time my sister ended up taking mum onto a ward just so as mum could have some food, she's diabetic), just wondering if anyone knows of an organisation that could help us with this, mum's in a wheelchair, I know I couldn't get her in and out of a car and my sister thinks she'd struggle with doing that. I know the Red Cross offer a service but according to their website it's not available here in Bristol

[MAS_Nurse]

Hi Jennymary, If you type into Google "Disability transport in Bristol" many organisations will come up. It would be a good idea if your mum takes a snack and a drink with her to her appointments in case there are delays. I hope this is helpful. Best wishes.

[MAS_Nurse in reply to MAS_Nurse]

Hi does anyone in the area know of any associations or individuals that can help with this problem of transport for a wheelchair bound person? Also Jennymary it may be a good idea not only taking a snack/drink (which is a very good point) but also her medication that maybe due if she is going to be any length of time away from the home.

[fenbadger in reply to MAS_Nurse]

I think this is endemic. We have a dial a ride which is totally unsuitable for hospital appointments - and they say so. Hospital transport relies on volunteers too, but they should be able to tell you at the point of booking if there's anyone available. My local service uses taxis if there's not a minibus driver available. Community transport is strangely lacking for such a wealthy part of the country.

I hope you find some resolution.

[Jennymary]

Thank you for your replies, after googling disability transport in Bristol I've found an organisation able to help mum