A pilot transport initiative aimed at improving access to specialist healthcare has been introduced for North Yorkshire residents who need to travel to The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
From Monday 13 July 2026, the in-house transport team at University Hospitals Tees has launched a transport service for anyone living in North Yorkshire attending appointments or visiting a relative receiving care at The James Cook University Hospital.
This initiative will run on a trial period for three months from Monday to Friday.
The service is designed to provide an affordable travel option for those living in rural and surrounding areas, who may not qualify for free patient transport or who find public transport unsuitable.
Moreover, it is also expected to help reduce the number of missed appointments, known as Did Not Attends (DNAs), which can cost the NHS around £165 per appointment and lead to delays in care.
Operating as a return journey, the transport service will allow individuals travelling from Friarage Hospital to James Cook to return on the transport later the same day. The fare remains £10 whether travelling one way or making a return journey.
Shuttle timetable timings
Friarage to James Cook
- 8.15am
James Cook to Friarage
- 3.15 pm
- 5.15pm
Following the trial period and passenger demand, there is a possibility of extending the transport service with additional transport to be introduced.
Community services director for University Hospitals Tees, James Dunbar, said:
We are deeply committed to local provision of healthcare in North Yorkshire but sometimes our patients need to access the specialist teams at James Cook. We have responded to feedback about transport difficulties and we hope this new bus will help.”
Initially, only cash payments will be accepted, with payment to be made to the driver before the journey commences, but plans are in progress to introduce card payments.
Booking Information
Bookings can be made by patients or their carers by calling the transport hotline on 01642838877 between Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.
This dedicated number has been established specifically for this shuttle service and cannot be used for other transport bookings.
Andy Jackson, who oversees the transport operations, said:
The team has chosen a telephone booking system rather than an online process to ensure the service remains accessible to all patients, particularly those who may be less comfortable using digital technology. The team will also explain in detail to the patient/staff member all the relevant information relating to their journey. That way we can ensure that passengers are fully aware of what they have to do in advance to make their journey as stress-free as possible.
“The booking team will also be able to answer any questions and discuss individual travel requirements.
“We hope this trial will improve accessibility for patients travelling between Friarage and James Cook, and we will analyse feedback and passenger demand data gathered over the three months to assess the future of the service.”