Motorcycling charity wins LoveBrum funding

LoveBrum has awarded £2,000 to a local charity that provide a free out of hours service to the NHS. 

Blood Bikes was started in 2010 by a group of friends who were keen motorcyclists. They run a 100% voluntary service that offers help to the NHS, that can literally be the difference between life and death.

Each month, LoveBrum selects three good causes around one theme and asks its members to vote for one of the organisations. February’s theme was causes supporting Public Services. 

As the Blood Bikes team are on motorbikes, they are able to get through traffic quicker, and deliver the products to hospitals quicker.

Blood Bikes have evolved from transporting blood and blood products to incorporate plasma for cancer patients, notes, medicines and donated breast milk.

They have 60 members, 35 of which are active riders. Everybody who volunteers for Blood Bikes gives their time for free, and fits this in alongside their normal work life.

They are currently working with Midland Air Ambulance for a three-year clinical trial which sees them delivering blood products to Midland Air Ambulance three evenings a week. They are also working alongside the Birmingham Women’s Hospital to deliver breast milk to premature babies.

Blood Bikes receive no government or NHS funding. All of their funds are donated, or raised by members fundraising.