These mobile clinics are equipped to deliver health studies all around the region, meaning more people can take part in research
A key goal of the buses is to improve inclusion in research from communities historically under-served by research opportunities. This encompasses ethnic groups, older people, groups affected by a specific health condition, carers, LGBTQ+, travellers and those living in isolated and rural areas.
Each bus is available to hire by partners including acute, community, mental health and primary care organisations.
Specification
Inside there are two spaces – a preparation room and a clinic room which also has a small, private WC.
Each vehicle:
weighs approx. 3.5 tonnes
is just over 7 metres in length
takes up around 4 standard parking spaces
On board is everything needed to deliver a range of studies, including:
Hire costs take into account operational costs, insurance and maintenance. Daily and weekly hire rates are available upon request.
Driving, parking and insurance
Anyone with a standard licence can drive a van up to 3,500kg. The Wessex Research Buses do not exceed 3,500kg. If the study is being delivered by the NIHR CRN Wessex Clinical Delivery Team, a member of the team will drive the bus. If you are delivering the study independently, a driver will not be provided. The vehicles are fully insured and have breakdown cover.
Chrissy joined Wessex Health Partners in July 2024. She moved across from her work with the NIHR Clinical Research Network (CRN) Wessex. As Communications and Engagement Lead, Chrissy played a pivotal role in the development of Wessex Research Hubs and Buses. She led the creation of a new cohesive brand, designed the website, developed a full suite of social media, ran online campaigns and extended PPIE work into the hubs and buses. She also launched the CRN’s first ever programme of public engagement to support recruitment into the region’s research studies aimed at improving health and care. Chrissy moved into comms after a long stint as a journalist, including nearly twenty years working for BBC South Today. She continues to approach most comms challenges as a journalist, putting storytelling at the heart of everything she does and always prioritising accessibility, immediacy and audience need.
