Community X-rays get transport green light

Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity approached Knowles Fleet, a transport management specialist, to tell them about the project and ask if they would consider providing a vehicle to support it. Knowles Fleet kindly agreed to donate the car free of charge, including the cost of vehicle branding, saving The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust around £6,000 for the year.

The community X-ray service, launched in Spring 2025, provides scans for patients living with frailty either at home or in a care home in Rotherham. The scans are performed by experienced radiographers.

Community X-rays are part of the Trust's goal to deliver more 'hospital at home' care; hospital-level care for frail patients in the comfort of their own homes. The service also helps prevent unnecessary hospital admissions or visits for frailty patients.

Dr Jo Beahan, Medical Director at The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, said: "It's so important that our patients can access the care they need where they need it. Thanks to Knowles Fleet's generous donation, which was sourced through Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, we can continue to provide this vital service efficiently and safely. Their support has made a real difference to patients and the Trust."

Rachael Dawes, Head of Charity and Engagement at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, said: "We're proud to have sourced the vehicle for the community X-ray service and helped get it on the road. A huge thank you to Knowles Fleet for their generosity, donating the vehicle and funding its branding, which will make such a positive difference for frailty patients across Rotherham."

Dan Howard, Procurement Director at Knowles Fleet, added: “As an employee owned business, giving back to our communities is a big part of what we do. Providing transport that helps deliver care at home feels like a meaningful way we can contribute to the wellbeing of local people and it’s our pleasure to support such an essential service.”