An adapted golf buggy is proving immensely popular among patients with mobility problems at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB).

The electric buggy was introduced at QEHB at the start of April 2012 for use by elderly and disabled patients.

The vehicle, which was bought by QEHB Charity, transports patients to the main hospital entrance from the nearby A2 car park.

It is proving such a hit that 776 people have so far used the buggy during its first three weeks of operation.

Carol Rawlings, Associate Director of Patient Affairs, said: “We had a lot of comments from patients and visitors saying that while there are fantastic disabled parking facilities, it was a struggle for some patients with mobility or ill-health problems to get to the hospital.

“Once they are in the main entrance, there will be plenty of wheelchairs to help them continue their journey.”

The buggy, which has its own charging point in the A2 car park, has been modified from a standard golf buggy by adding rain-proof covering, a safety bar, and a drop-step at the rear. It can carry a driver and up to three passengers.

It will operate initially from 09:00 to 16:00 hours, Monday to Friday, but this will be reviewed on a regular basis to see if it best meets the needs of patients and visitors.

The buggy is operated by volunteer drivers who must hold a UK driving licence and be able to give three hours once (or more times) a week.

Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to contact the Voluntary Services Department:

Tel: 0121 627 7847
Email: Voluntary.Services@uhb.nhs.uk