Infrastructure Initiative:

Wessex Research Buses

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:


Staffing 

Staff at South Central Regional Research Delivery Network (RRDN) can help with the delivery of studies on board the buses.

Costs

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. 

For information, please contact wessexcrdc@uhs.nhs.uk

For more information contact...

Chrissy Sturt

Senior Communications and Strategy Manager
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