November 27, 2019 10.41 am This story is over 51 months old

North Lincolnshire patient transport firm quits contract after eight months

Ongoing non-emergency ambulance saga

A non-emergency patient transport provider in North Lincolnshire has decided to terminate its contract just eight months after taking over the service.

Kent-based Savoy Venture Ltd won the contract commissioned by NHS North Lincolnshire CCG and took over the service in March.

The firm took over as provider after Thames Ambulance Service was stripped of its contract last year.

Now, Savoy Venture have given notice to CCG bosses that it has decided to terminate its contract from March 2020.

The company will continue to provide the service until then.

Health Place, Brigg, where North Lincolnshire CCG is based.

Commissioners said they will now look to a appoint a replacement provider for the region.

A spokesperson for the CCG said: “We are aware that Savoy Ventures have communicated with their staff regarding their decision to terminate their contract with us.

“We have been in a negotiation with Savoy Ventures about their contract terms at their request.

“The normal process is that these discussions would be concluded prior to a provider giving notice.

“Patients do not need to take any action as a result of the ending of the contract and the CCG will continue to work with Savoy Ventures over the coming months to ensure they continue to provide safe and reliable services that meet their needs.

“NHS North Lincolnshire CCG is undertaking actions to appoint a replacement non-emergency patient transport provider.”

Savoy Ventures were brought in to to deliver non-emergency patient transport across the region after health bosses terminated a contract with under-performing Thames Ambulance Service in March 2018.

The company took over the reigns the following year and had promised to provide an “efficient service”.


SUBSCRIBE TO LOCAL DEMOCRACY WEEKLY, our exclusive email newsletter with highlights from our coverage every week and insights and analysis from our local democracy reporters.