Minibus Joy for Care Home

12/11/2004

Residents of Hallgarth Care Home, in Durham, faced an anxious time following the withdrawal of the local authority's minibus service for financial reasons. But the team at the nursing home soon realised that their best option was to purchase their own vehicle.

"Our residents enjoy a wide range of social activities, organised by our activities co-ordinator but we really need transport in order to take them out and about," explains Joan Williams, matron at Hallgarth. "The Council minibus, although too large, was the only way we had of being able to ensure that our residents could enjoy getting out on local visits."

Joan researched several suppliers before settling on Allied Vehicles.

"I had contacted some of the other companies that we had seen," says Joan. "But, as well as being too far away, none of them seemed to quite understand our requirements.

"Allied Vehicles was the only company that really understood what we wanted, and were more than happy to help with all our queries."

With the help of Allied Vehicles Joan was able to order a purpose-built Peugeot Monarch 12-seater minibus, capable of holding up to four wheelchairs.

The new Monarch has gone down well with residents. "They love it," said Joan. "Many of them found the previous minibus too bulky and unwelcoming. The new Monarch is more compact and convenient, but still large enough to meet all our needs. Overall it gives a much cosier feel meaning that residents can enjoy a conversation with each other en route."

Gavin Gillies, Managing Director of Allied Vehicles said: "We pride ourselves on the level of service that we offer to our customers, and I'm delighted that the results have been so positive for Hallgarth Care Home.

"We wish Joan and the team all the best in their new Monarch."

For more information on the Peugeot Monarch and our range of minibuses click here.

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