Community Transport

In a medical emergency, where the need is critical, or life-threatening, patients or their carers should dial 999 for a paramedic led ambulance response.  NHS Choices states that “it will generally be obvious if the patient, or someone else, is seriously ill, or injured, and will need emergency care”.  A medical professional may also call for an ambulance on your behalf where this is appropriate.

For non emergencies, other use of ambulance transport is based on the medical need of the patient, and has to be approved by an authorised and qualified NHS staff member.

If there is no genuine emergency or medical case for the use of an ambulance, where or are not able to (or you choose not to) use a car, your journey can be either by public or community (or volunteer) transport, depending on your circumstances.  A number of different community transport services operate across Greater Manchester, helping people to access essential services, including healthcare.

For more information or to find the local operator in your area please visit www.manchesterctforum.org.uk or contact Beth Sharratt on 0161 277 1029.

Community Transport services are generally subsidised and so have low fares.  Please note that some volunteer and community transport operators haves eligibility conditions that may affect your entitlement to use a particular service.

Transport for Sick Children: Transport for Sick Children is a registered charity working throughout Greater Manchester and helping children to reach their hospital appointments.  If you have difficulty getting your child to and from health appointments please speak to your Health Visitor or Social Worker and ask them to contact the charity directly.

If you or anyone you know has access to a vehicle and would like to become a volunteer driver for the charity, please phone 0161 432 7800.