BBCA charity which transports blood and medical supplies for the NHS has reported a “record year” of helping the health services.
Riders and drivers for South West Blood Bikes have travelled 236,000 miles over 12 months, which they estimate has saved the NHS and hospices in Devon more than £400,000.
The charity is made up of a team of 116 unpaid volunteers and does not charge the NHS for any of its work.
Torbay Hospital has nominated the charity for its People Partner Award 2026 to recognise its outstanding contribution saying its volunteers make a huge difference when “every minute counts”.
Steve Dower, chairman of South West Blood Bikes, said it provided a predominantly courier service for the NHS and hospices in Devon.
“By doing so it saves them having to use couriers and taxis out of hours and therefore saves a significant amount of money and also helps improves the outcomes of the patients that we are supporting,” he said.
He said the charity was funded entirely through small grants awards and donations by individuals and businesses.
It is part of the National Association of Blood Bikes (NABB) which means it can relay items across the UK by linking in with the other 34 NABB blood bike groups.
Dr Kate Lissett, chief medical officer, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “When every minute counts, South West Blood Bikes are there.
“They transport blood, samples, medicines, equipment and donor breast milk where they’re needed, and they deliver medicines to people at home, supporting earlier discharge from hospital and better bed availability for those who need hospital care.”
“We’re sincerely grateful to each volunteer for the difference they make and for the fantastic service South West Blood Bikes provides to the NHS both in Torbay and South Devon and across the county,” she added.
