Free taxi service for parts of Stoke-on-Trent with lowest Covid vaccine rates
It's for people who may have found it hard to get to a vaccination centre
A free taxi shuttle service is being offered to Stoke-on-Trent residents who want to have the Covid-19 vaccination, but may have found it hard to get to a vaccination centre.
The new service will provide people with a return trip from their homes direct to the city-wide vaccination programme.
The shuttle service is for residents living in the following areas of the city where the uptake of the Covid-19 vaccine to date has been lower:
• Hanley & Etruria
• Shelton & Joiners Square
• Longport & Burslem Park
• Florence (Normacot)
• Tunstall
• Cobridge & Central Forest Park
• Bentilee & Ubberley
• Boothen & Penkhull
• Meir North
The move aims to tackle any transport barriers that may stop people from taking up the vaccine.
The shuttle service began on Christmas Eve and will operate into the new year. The shuttle taxis can be booked by calling 01782 234234.
Councillor Abi Brown, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent Council said: “Providing fair and easy access to the Covid jab for everyone in Stoke-on-Trent is central to the vaccination programme.
“The shuttle service has been launched in response to feedback from residents who found that getting transport to the vaccination clinics was a barrier to getting their vaccine.
“This winter we are doing everything we can to get people vaccinated, and this new service will help people who may previously have been put off by the cost or availability of transport to their vaccination clinic.
“The shuttle is open to everyone resident in the areas of the city where we know that vaccination rates are lower. We are particularly keen for people working in social care settings to take up this transport offer.
Dr Paul Edmondson-Jones MBE, Director of Adult Social Care, Health Integration and Wellbeing and Director of Public Health, said: “The expanded booster programme has already proven to be a huge success across the city. The challenge is now to sustain that momentum and keep residents coming in the run up to the New Year.
“We also want to encourage unvaccinated people to get their first jab, as it's never too late to get your vaccination.
“Vaccinations remain the best line of defence against serious illness if you develop Covid-19.
“I would ask anyone who needs the shuttle to book their ride, and take the opportunity to protect themselves and their loved ones this winter.”
The shuttle service is for people who need their first jab, second jab or booster vaccinations.