Ford Transit Covid-19 vaccination vehicles are now set to take mobile clinic to vulnerable communities.

The pilot scheme by Ford, the NHS in Essex and community leaders tackles access barriers where people are currently unable to make it to their nearest clinic. Those who are homeless, vulnerable or even unregistered patients are to be supported by the scheme and are all welcome. The vehicle is designed for safe transportation and administration of the vaccine.

It will travel across Essex in June and will work with GP practices to help in the low uptake areas. The Ford Transit hubs will have dedicated locations in the grounds of churches, mosques and other community venues.

19 out of 20 people aged 50 and over have already chosen to take up on the offer. A number of people from ethnic minority backgrounds are also coming forward and the total number is known to have tripled over the last two months. 

The popular commercial vehicles which is over 56 years old has been converted with a West-Yorkshire- based specialists called the Venari group.

Mandy Dean, Director of Commercial Vehicles at Ford of Britain said: “Over the coming weeks, this Ford Transit will make some incredibly important journeys as a vaccination van. Working with the NHS and community leaders to deliver this brilliant scheme and bolster the exemplary vaccine rollout, has been a privilege. Full credit is due to our conversion partners at Venari Group, who continue to work with us to make thousands of life-saving vehicles for the emergency services every year.” 

Dr Smitesh Patel, Clinical Director at Benfleet Primary Care Network, Essex commented: “Our goal of giving everyone an equal opportunity to receive this essential vaccine is now in closer reach, owing to the additional support from our valued network of community leaders, Ford and Venari Group.

“This added mobility has meant the gap will be bridged for so many facing a struggle to visit their local vaccination centre. With this support, we enter an important chapter of our vaccine rollout with a renewed sense of hope and optimism.”

Oliver North, CEO at Venari Group said; “The departure of the completed vaccination van from our factory on to British roads is something of a historic moment for us. We have worked closely with Ford and the NHS in Essex to create such an important vehicle, which is set to make a big impact in the community.”