A pilot transport initiative connecting North Yorkshire patients to The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough will now benefit from an extended service, with eligible patients being picked up directly from their homes.
In July, the in-house transport team at University Hospitals Tees launched a transport service for people living in North Yorkshire who are attending appointments or visiting a relative receiving care at The James Cook University Hospital.
The service provides an affordable travel option for people living in rural areas who may not qualify for free NHS patient transport or have a condition that makes using public transport difficult.
Following patient feedback, the in-house transport team is extending the service to help ensure everyone has equal access to care.
This means eligible patients who have an appointment at James Cook but are unable to travel to Friarage Hospital to access the shuttle service may now be offered free transport to and from their home in rural North Yorkshire.
The extended service will benefit patients living in areas such as Hawes, Northallerton, Richmond, Bedale, Leyburn, Thirsk and surrounding communities.
There will be strict eligibility criteria for the service, with each request assessed on a case-by-case basis by the in-house transport team.
Eligibility may include:
- Patients who are not eligible for the NHS Patient Transport Service and who would otherwise face difficulties accessing the shuttle service
- Patients with a disability, older residents, or those with a condition that makes using public transport difficult
Individuals will still need to pay the £10 charge for the shuttle journey between Friarage and James Cook. Home pick-ups and return journeys to and from the patient’s home will be provided free of charge. Eligible patients will be picked up from their home, taken to Friarage for the shuttle service, and returned home following their appointment.
Shuttle bus timetable
Friarage to James Cook
- 8.15am
James Cook to Friarage
- 3.15pm
- 5.15pm
Booking information
Bookings can be made by patients or their carers by calling the transport hotline on 01642 83887 between Monday and Friday, 8am to 4pm.
This dedicated number has been established specifically for the shuttle service, including the home pick-up service, and cannot be used for other transport bookings.
Andy Jackson, who oversees the transport operations, said:
“We are pleased to be extending our transport service for residents across rural North Yorkshire by offering eligible patients transport directly from their homes to connect with the shuttle service.
“While not every patient will meet the eligibility criteria for the home pick-up service, we will do everything we can to support those who need assistance getting to their appointments.
“If you have any questions about the service or would like to discuss your eligibility, please contact our team on 01642 838877 and we will be happy to help.”
Frequently asked questions
What is the shuttle service?
The shuttle service provides transport between Friarage Hospital and The James Cook University Hospital for patients attending appointments and visitors travelling to see relatives receiving care.
What has changed?
Eligible patients who are unable to travel independently to Friarage Hospital may now be offered free transport from their home to Friarage Hospital, where they can connect with the shuttle service to James Cook. They will also be provided with a free return journey home after their appointment.
Who can use the home pick-up service?
The service is available to eligible patients attending appointments at The James Cook University Hospital. Each request will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the in-house transport team.
How will eligibility be assessed?
The transport team will consider each patient’s individual circumstances. This may include whether the patient has a disability, mobility difficulties, age-related issues, or other conditions that make travelling independently difficult.
Do I qualify automatically if I am not eligible for NHS Patient Transport?
No. Patients who are not eligible for NHS Patient Transport may be considered for the service, but eligibility will be assessed individually by the transport team.
Which areas are covered?
The service is intended for patients living in rural North Yorkshire, including areas such as Hawes, Northallerton, Richmond, Bedale, Leyburn, Thirsk and surrounding communities.
How much does the service cost?
The home pick-up and return journey are free for eligible patients. However, patients will still need to pay the £10 shuttle fare between Friarage Hospital and The James Cook University Hospital.
Is the journey home included?
Yes. Eligible patients will be taken from their home to Friarage Hospital, travel on the shuttle service to James Cook, and be returned home following their appointment.
Can a carer or family member travel with me?
Please speak to the transport team when booking, as this will depend on availability and individual circumstances.
How do I book?
Bookings can be made by patients or carers by calling 01642 838877 between 8am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Can I use this number for other transport bookings?
No, this number is dedicated to the North Yorkshire shuttle service and cannot be used for other transport enquiries or bookings.
What happens if I am unsure whether I qualify?
Please contact the transport team on 01642 838877. They will discuss your circumstances and advise whether the service may be suitable for you.
Is the service available for every appointment?
The transport team will discuss your appointment details and circumstances when you book to determine whether the service can be provided.
What should I do if I need to cancel my booking?
Please contact the transport hotline as soon as possible so the booking can be amended or cancelled.
Why has the service been extended?
The service was extended following patient feedback, which showed that some people living in rural communities were unable to reach Friarage Hospital to access the shuttle service. The new arrangement aims to remove this barrier and improve access to care.