From sample collections for testing to patient record transfers and transporting medicines, the NHS relies on daily courier services to effectively carry out lifesaving work across the country.
This operational necessity is often contracted externally, with transport and deliveries being carried out by diesel van-based services – ultimately resulting in additional pollution, carbon emissions and congestion (with the NHS reportedly generating a total of 3.5% of all road travel in England which is equivalent to 9.5 billion miles).
As part of its pioneering work to tackle the climate and health emergency, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust looked at reliable alternatives which could be used for short journeys, especially within the congested city centre.
