Older residents in rural Cullyhanna and across South Armagh are receiving support with difficult hospital journeys through Home 2 Hospital, a volunteer transport service designed to make out-of-area appointments easier to reach.
Operated by Newry-based charity and social enterprise Bolster Community, the scheme provides transport for people aged over 60 who live in Slieve Gullion or the Mournes and need to attend hospital appointments outside their immediate area. The service has also recently been extended to the Crotlieve area of County Down.
Fewer buses and less pressure for patients
For some rural South Armagh residents, reaching specialist care can require more than one type of public transport. Without the scheme, some journeys could take twice as long, while infrequent rural services and timetables that finish at about 6pm can create additional pressure for older patients.
A missed bus or delayed taxi can leave patients worried about missing an appointment. Home 2 Hospital volunteers remain available throughout the day, providing an organised journey to hospital and a return trip afterwards.
The service also reduces the need for relatives or friends to take time off work or arrange a collection after treatment. Instead of managing another public transport journey while tired or unwell, passengers can rest in the car on the way home.
Volunteer drivers provide companionship too
Noel Evans has driven for Home 2 Hospital for five years. The scheme covers rural parts of Armagh and Down, where he identified significant need, and drivers can provide practical assistance during what may be a stressful day.
The support can be particularly important for people receiving demanding treatment. One woman undergoing cancer treatment told Evans that she might not have attended her appointments without the scheme. She completed about 27 consecutive treatment sessions, with Evans and another volunteer sharing the driving, and was brought home in time for lunch after each appointment.
The journeys can also offer companionship. Conversation in the car can become an important source of support for people who might otherwise experience loneliness in rural communities, with some passengers opening up to their drivers.
Scheme expands into Crotlieve
Home 2 Hospital was highlighted by the Belfast Telegraph on 22 August 2026. Its expansion into Crotlieve adds to support already available to older people in Slieve Gullion and the Mournes who face difficult journeys for specialist or out-of-area healthcare.
The available information does not state how residents can apply for transport or volunteer as drivers. It does establish that the service is intended for older residents who cannot rely on frequent public transport or family members and need help getting to an appointment and home again.