The trial is being carried out by Cornwall’s NHS 111 provider, Kernow Health CIC, with the plan to use the e-cargo bike for out-of-hours care. 

Testing involves the bike being trialled over different time frames across Newquay - mainly during the weekend, since this is said to be the service’s most demanding periode for support. 

With no urgent care currently based in Newquay, Kernow Health CIC is keen to use this trial to show that having a bike in the town would significantly improve services for patients.

On the difference the e-bike will make to the town, specialist paramedic from Kernow Health, Nic Pendreich said: “Having this resource will allow us to make extra visits during our weekend and evening services and therefore increasing clinical capacity.”

Kernow Health CIC says the Riese & Muller e-cargo bike delivers quicker response times for patients than a car having to come from another town. 

The trial became possible after the service gained funding from Cornwall Council’s Travel to Work grant, as well as sponsorship from Fully Charged, a Newquay-based e-bike shop. 

As well as delivering shorter waiting times and a reduced carbon footprint, the e-bike is also improving employee wellbeing. 

Kevin McSherry, Head of Operations at Cornwall 111 Integrated Urgent Care Service said: “The introduction of the E-cargo bike has been fantastic, not only for our patients
but also our employees in the urgent care service here at Kernow Health CIC. 

“Staff are already reporting that they are enjoying getting out and about on the bike in Newquay, engaging with the public and benefitting from the exercise that cycling brings.”