Ulster Hospital becomes more accessible thanks to new free 24/7 wheelchair service
The South Eastern Trust has launched a new free wheelchair service, the first of its kind in Ireland, which has seen the number of users treble since it was introduced.
Delivered in partnership with Coffey Healthcare as the exclusive distributors of Wheelshare across Ireland, the Wheelshare scheme provides a modern, self-service wheelchair system which is available for patients and visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across the hospital site.
Wheelchairs are stationed at the main hospital entrance and the multi-storey car park, with additional docking stations planned for the Critical Care and Urgent Care Building entrance.
The new service allows people to collect and return wheelchairs for free from secure self-service docking stations, after swiping a bank or credit card, to ensure the wheelchair is safely returned.
It is important to stress that they will not be charged for the wheelchair if it is returned after four hours. if they need the wheelchair for longer, users can simply take out another wheelchair and continue using that chair for free, for a further four hours.
The system is designed to be easy to use, with no need to register, download an app or wait for assistance.
Patient wheelchairs in the Emergency Department and Outpatient Departments are not part of this scheme and are always available, as required.
The Trust wishes to thank the previous Shopmobility service, which also provided mobility scooters during weekday hours. While these scooters remain Trust-owned, work is ongoing to explore options for extending access to mobility scooters in a safe and effective way.
Welcoming the new initiative, South Eastern Trust, Deputy Chief Executive & Director of Nursing and Support Services, Professor David Robinson said: “I am absolutely delighted that we are the first hospital in Ireland to partner with Wheelshare, improving accessibility for our patients and visitors.
"This initiative means that people can easily pick up a wheelchair at one point across the Ulster Hospital and leave it at another, making their journey through the hospital much more convenient.
“It is a simple idea, but one that makes a real difference, providing comfort, independence and reassurance to those who need a little extra support getting around. The system is straightforward to use, readily available and designed with the user in mind.
“We are proud to be leading the way in enhancing the experience for everyone who comes through our doors.”
Assistant Director of Patient Experience, Jeff Thompson added: “The new Wheelshare service is a significant step forward in improving accessibility across the Ulster Hospital site.
"The scheme is the first of its kind in any hospital on the island of Ireland. It will provide a simple, convenient and inclusive solution for patients and visitors who may need additional support getting around.
“The ability to access a wheelchair quickly and easily, at any time of the day or night, will make a real difference to people’s experience of our services. We are encouraged by the positive feedback received so far and will continue to review the scheme as it develops.”