Blood Bikers step up to help the NHS during COVID-19
The Devon Freewheelers Blood Bikers have begun carrying out COVID-19 tests for self-isolating NHS staff
AS if the UK network of Blood Bikers weren’t heroes enough, now they are taking to doorstep COVID-19 tests for NHS frontline staff who are having to self-isolate.
Aside from carrying vital blood for transfusions, organs for transplants and medical supplies from hospital to hospital, the Devon Freewheelers (also known as the Devon Blood Bikers) are now helping frontline NHS staff get back to work quicker after self-isolation.
The team has been out riding across Devon delivering doorstep tests to NHS staff to check if they have contracted Coronavirus. The testing is key to helping the staff get back work, after they may have been forced into self-isolation by a family member, partner or child that has shown symptoms of COVID-19.
The Devon’s rugged landscape and remote villages, the testing kits can sometimes be the only effective way of getting NHS staff members samples taken and tested quickly, with the Freewheelers aiming to get them to the lab and analysed within three hours. Once the staff member is given the all-clear, they’re free to return to work and help out on the frontline.
The team's work has not just gained applause from the mainstream motorcycle media, East Devon MP, Simon Jupp, wrote to the service’s Chief Executive to say thank you.
“I wanted to write to you all to express my sincere gratitude for the vitally important service that you are providing to the NHS and patients at this time. You clearly demonstrate the spirit we require as a nation to beat this virus. On behalf of the people of East Devon, thank you. Whilst it is a shame that you’ve had to cancel your Ride Out event, I was really pleased to see a number of people have volunteered to support your organisation and that your fundraising efforts go from strength to strength. If I can be of any assistance to promote your cause, please do get in touch”
To find out more about the Devon Freewheelers or to support the charity, head to: devonfreewheelers.org.uk
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
