The ICE Bus (In Case of Emergency) is out every Saturday Night from 10.00 pm to 4.00 am. It is parked opposite the cenotaph on Above Bar Street at the entrance to East Park. The service offers a safe haven for those who have been injured or are in need of help. There are qualified Ambulance personnel from South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust on hand to provide basic medical care. There is also a team of workers from Southampton City Council available to offer welfare support and advice.
The ICE Bus is one of a number of initiatives we are running to support the emergency services. It is a partnership project between Southampton City Council, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Hampshire Police, Southampton Voluntary Service and Southampton Street Pastors.
The ICE Bus has been operating for over 18 months and has helped 445 people. 41% of customers were treated on board the bus thus easing the pressure on the Ambulance Service and the Emergency Department. The ICE Bus has supported customers with 21% visiting the ICE bus needing help and support. Another 23% who visited the bus were intoxicated and were looked after by staff until they were sober enough to get home safely.
Copyright © Southampton City Council 2009
