At Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA), our partnership with Devon Freewheelers is an integral part of the service we provide. Devon Freewheelers, a volunteer-based charity, offers an out-of-hours service to the NHS, using marked blood bikes and cars to transport urgently needed blood, medical supplies and more. Their dedication ensures that life-saving resources reach those in need across the county.

The Role of Devon Freewheelers

The volunteers of Devon Freewheelers transport not only blood for DSAA but also provides a free, essential service to the NHS in Devon. Transporting medical equipment, surgical supplies, donor breast milk, patient notes , and even blood tissue and organs for transplants. These committed individuals give up their time to provide this service, often working through the night to ensure there’s no delay in care.

Delivering Blood to Helimed10

Since 2016, DSAA has been carrying blood products, transforming the care we can deliver at the scene. Devon Freewheelers have since taken on the responsibility of ensuring blood products are reliably delivered to our Clinical Team every 48 hours.

Using a resupply car with 4x4 capability, volunteers collect blood from Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester and deliver it to our Henstridge airbase, regardless of the weather. Each volunteer is on call for two days, ready to respond to both scheduled and unscheduled deliveries.

A Night on Call with a Devon Freewheeler Volunteer

Volunteers like Dave Cook share incredible stories of their work, from transporting emergency blood samples for newborns, to coordinating breast milk transfers for premature babies. Every task, whether planned or urgent, plays a crucial role in saving lives. Volunteers often work into the early hours, knowing their efforts directly impact patients’ chances of survival. Read more >

Proud Partners

Our partnership with Devon Freewheelers showcases their commitment to DSAA’s life-saving missions. Together, we’re making a difference to patients and their families.

For more information about the vital work of Devon Freewheelers, visit: www.devonfreewheelers.org.uk