A charity providing vital transport of blood, medicines and medical supplies for the NHS has reported a record-breaking year, delivering major savings and life-saving support across Devon.

South West Blood Bikes said its volunteer riders and drivers covered nearly 2.36 lakh miles over the past 12 months, helping save the NHS and local hospices more than £4 lakh. The charity operates entirely free of charge to the health service and is run by 116 unpaid volunteers.

In recognition of its contribution, Torbay Hospital has nominated South West Blood Bikes for its People Partner Award 2026, citing the charity’s critical role when “every minute counts”.

Saving time, money and lives

Steve Dower, chairman of South West Blood Bikes, said the organisation functions largely as an out-of-hours courier service for NHS trusts and hospices across Devon.

“By providing this service, we save the NHS from relying on taxis or private couriers, especially at night,” he said. “That not only saves a significant amount of money but also helps improve patient outcomes by ensuring urgent items arrive on time.”

The charity transports blood, pathology samples, medicines, medical equipment and donor breast milk. It also delivers medicines directly to patients’ homes, supporting earlier discharge from hospital and improving bed availability.

Entirely volunteer-run

South West Blood Bikes is funded through small grants and donations from individuals and local businesses. It does not receive direct payment from the NHS for any of its work.

The group is affiliated with the National Association of Blood Bikes, enabling it to relay urgent medical consignments across the UK by coordinating with 34 other blood bike charities nationwide.

NHS praises ‘outstanding contribution’

Dr Kate Lissett, chief medical officer at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, praised the charity’s impact.

“When every minute counts, South West Blood Bikes are there,” she said. “Their volunteers transport blood, samples, medicines and equipment where they are urgently needed, making a real difference to patient care across Torbay and South Devon.”

She added that the NHS was “sincerely grateful” to every volunteer for the commitment and reliability they bring to the service.

As pressures on health systems continue, the record year highlights how community-led, volunteer-driven initiatives can play a crucial role in strengthening public healthcare.