Some 5 years after their first visit members of the Merseyside and Cheshire Blood Bikes, who are affiliated to the National Association of Blood Bikes, made a return visit to the DCBL Stadium on 4th August to update us on their vital role within the provision of local healthcare. With its roots going back over half a century the concept of a rapid response motorcycle-based charity, run by unpaid volunteers has an impressive track record of service to the NHS and wider community.
Each regional ‘Group’ is made up of Riders, Call Handlers, Fundraisers and a small army of Volunteers drawn from all walks of life. Jeff Wainwright, Secretary of the local Group, explained how the Riders and Call Handlers volunteer to cover a roster which operates a ’24/7′ service throughout the whole year. Whilst the Group has a small pool of bikes mainly used for longer journeys the Riders also use their own bikes, provide their own fuel and the appropriate high visibility clothing needed to provide this service in all weathers.
Although working alongside other front line Emergency Services the ‘Blood Bikers’, who must have at least two years riding experience, a clean licence and an Advanced Rider qualification, do not enjoy Blue Light status and are required to observe all rules of the road, relying on their professionalism and the assistance of other road users to enable them to complete their urgent missions in a timely manner.
As the name suggests the groups were originally formed to deliver supplies of blood where it was needed. However the service has grown such that they now not only transport blood, drugs, human tissue and other medical requirements for the NHS but also donor breast milk for neonatal units. In another major development the groups liaise with each other across the country to relay urgently required supplies at a national level – and all on a voluntary basis!
Following this visit it was agreed by the Golden Generation membership to make a donation to the local Group and at the following week’s meeting a cheque for £200 was handed over to Jeff Wainwright. Denis Thomas, on behalf of the Golden Generation in turn received a ‘Certificate of Appreciation awarded to Widnes Vikings Golden Generation in recognition of the generous contribution to our charity.’
Photo: Pam Hall on a Blood Bike with other members of the Golden Generation
