A FREE transport programme launched by Shropshire Council to help vulnerable residents attend their Covid-19 vaccination appointments has helped almost 300 people.

After its launch in January, the programme has been used by 280 residents across the county to attend their appointments.

The scheme, which aims to help vulnerable residents was initially launched using Shropshire Council’s own fleet of vehicles, until 25 local taxi and bus operators volunteered their time, free of charge, to support more people.

It has also helped 283 housebound patients have their vaccine at home by using Shropshire Council’s vehicle fleet to transport staff from Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) to safely deliver their jabs.

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, said the service has made sure those who are most vulnerable are able to get their jabs.

He said: “The rollout of the vaccines against Covid-19 to the most vulnerable people in Shropshire has been very successful to date, with 97 per cent of over-70s already having their first jab.

“The free transport offer, with the support of the many local bus and taxi operators who volunteered to help, has enabled the most vulnerable in the county to receive their vaccinations and, we hope, peace of mind that they now have substantial protection.

“I’d like to thank all council staff, partners, local organisations and community groups who have worked so hard to help us protect Shropshire residents.”

The service has not just been limited to vaccine appointments in the county – the council and partners have helped Shropshire residents attend appointments at vaccination centres in Telford, Crewe and at the Black Country Museum.

All vehicles have appropriate ventilation, with strict infection control measures in place to ensure they are operated with the highest levels of public health safeguards.

The council and its partners are now planning to provide transport for vulnerable people to receive the second dose of their vaccines against Covid-19.