Issue - meetings

Issue - meetings

Update on the Non-Emergency Passenger Transport Service Contract

Meeting: 17/09/2018 - SOCIAL CARE, HEALTH & HOUSING OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE (Item 110)

110 Update on the Non-Emergency Passenger Transport Service Contract pdf icon PDF 507 KB

 

To receive an update from the East of England Ambulance Service Trust on the first six months in operation of the non-emergency passenger transport service contract awarded in April 2018.

 

Minutes:

 

The Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) for the East of England Ambulance Service Trust Bedfordshire delivered a presentation that outlined the Services’ performance for the Non-emergency Passenger Transport service contract awarded to them in January 2018. 

 

With plans to recruit additional staff and the relocation of the control room to Bedford to provide a localised service to patients, the SRO was confident Key Performance Indicators could be met.  In addition, there would be a move to re-establish the help of voluntary drivers.  A Member commended the work of the Good Neighbour Scheme that provided transport to hospital for local residents who request it.   There was the potential to coordination with the Good Neighbour Groups amongst other voluntary groups to help secure the voluntary help they required.

 

In response to a question on how the Council might help the Service, Members were asked to raise the profile of the Ambulance Trust in the Bedfordshire area with a positive voice.  The Committee was reassured that plans put in place would see the Ambulance Service reach its goal and achieved an excellent service for patients.  

 

RECOMMENDED that:-

 

·         The direction of travel and good performance within Bedfordshire be welcomed.

·         The Trust be encouraged to fill outstanding vacancies in order to enhance performance.

·         The Committee wished to see an early resolution concerning the appointment of a new Chief Executive who, when in post, would provide continuity and improved services.