SOS bus gets onboard medical unit

The bus will be staffed by volunteers and medical professionals

A special bus laid on to help nightlife revellers in need is to be equipped with an onboard medical unit.

The Safe and Sound project (SOS) provides a refuge for those who need help after a night out in Norwich.

Now SOS buses with treatment areas staffed by paramedics, two volunteers and a doctor, will be sited in the Prince of Wales Road area.

The NHS in Norfolk is aiming to reduce the pressure on local accident and emergency departments.

The buses, which will have two treatment bays, will be taking to the road for the first time on Friday night and will run every Friday and Saturday evening for the next 10 months.

'Safer environment'

Staff working on the buses during the day will also educate young people on subjects such as sexual health, the dangers of drugs, smoking and alcohol as well as providing support for lifestyle such as fitness and diet.

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said they were looking forward to "playing a key role in this exciting project".

"This is a tremendous opportunity to bring medical care and advice into the heart of the Norwich club and night life in Norwich," he said.

Councillor Bert Bremner, Norwich City Council's member for community safety and community cohesion, said: "It allows us to help provide a safer drinking environment for those who enjoy the city's late night culture, and complements the work of the police in tackling crime and disorder within the city."