Ride-hailing app Bolt sees hospital trip demand surge by 110% during Tube strike as new feature launches
- Perry Richardson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Ride-hailing giants Bolt has reported a sharp 110% increase in hospital-related trips across London during the most recent Tube strike, as passengers turned to the app to access essential medical services.
The company recorded a 110% rise in hospital journeys compared to the previous week. Locations such as Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, Royal London Hospital and St Mary’s Hospital all saw hospital trip numbers double. Usage at Guys and St Thomas’ climbed by 118%.
According to Bolt, hospital-related bookings in the capital have been rising consistently since January 2023, up 10% even before this latest disruption. The figures highlight the growing role that taxis and ride-hailing plays in helping people attend appointments or visit hospital patients, especially when public transport is unavailable.
In response, Bolt has introduced a new feature called Bolt Assist, aimed at supporting those with reduced mobility. The service is intended for older passengers, those with short- or long-term mobility issues, and individuals with visual or hearing impairments. Passengers using foldable mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers are also eligible.
Developed with input from Disability Rights UK, Bolt Assist includes virtual guidance for drivers and a focus on practical help. This includes door-to-vehicle support, assistance getting in and out of the car, and help folding and storing mobility equipment.
Bolt has confirmed that rides booked using Bolt Assist will be charged at the same rate as its standard service.
Kimberly Hurd, Bolt’s Senior General Manager for the UK, said: “We’ve seen first-hand how critical ride-hailing has become for people needing to access healthcare, especially when public transport is disrupted. I have personally relied on ride-hailing while on crutches and wouldn’t have been able to manage without it. Launching Bolt Assist at this moment will help make transport more inclusive, particularly during a time when it’s harder to get around. Transport must work for everyone, and shared mobility is one part of the solution.”
Kamran Mallick, CEO of Disability Rights UK, said: "Accessible transport is not a luxury, it's a fundamental right that enables independence and full participation in society. We are delighted to partner with Bolt on this crucial initiative. By co-designing driver guidance and introducing dedicated accessible ride options like Bolt Assist, we are taking a significant step towards breaking down the barriers disabled people face daily in London, offering more choice and confidence when travelling."
