New e-bike helps Norwich paramedics reach patients faster in city centre

The bike has been introduced by the Norwich cycle response team thanks to £7,000 raised by the East of England Co-op through its Local Giving campaign, along with support from the East of England Ambulance Service Charity.

The team of cycle response paramedics attends emergency 999 calls across central Norwich, often navigating areas that are difficult for ambulances to access. Equipped with compact versions of life-saving equipment, they can begin urgent treatment while additional support is on the way.

Until now, the team has relied entirely on pedal power, typically covering between 20 and 50 kilometres per shift and responding to five to seven incidents.

The new e-bike is expected to improve response times, particularly during busy periods, by allowing paramedics to travel further and more quickly across the city.

Norwich Cycle Response Paramedic, Matthew Hipperson commented: “Having this e-bike will make an enormous difference. It will help us respond faster and more efficiently, getting to our patients when every second counts. Norwich may be relatively flat, but there are still plenty of areas in the city which is very hilly and the additional support of an e-bike will be invaluable.”

The funding was raised across 12 East of England Co-op stores in Norwich, with customers and colleagues supporting the initiative through local donations.

Kate Lott, Head of Charity, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the East of England Co-op colleagues and customers for their generosity and support. This e-bike will make a vital difference to both the cycle response team and the people of Norwich.”

If you’d like to support East of England Ambulance Service Charity, start fundraising or donate via JustGiving today.