Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management has taken a green leap forward by leasing 18 new electric vehicles (EVs).

The four-year contract is in aid of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's aims to reach net zero by 2040.

The vehicles, replacing part of the fleet used by estates and facilities teams across Northumberland and North Tyneside hospital sites, will help minimise carbon emissions.

The change came about after a thorough review of vehicle use that included managers and head porters.

Over half of the incoming fleet will be electric, charged overnight at hospital sites to save on fuel.

Dr Clare Winter, head of sustainability at Northumbria Healthcare, said: "We have a responsibility through our Net Zero Northumbria action plan to make improvements to the trust’s sustainability in all aspects of our business in order to meet our net zero 2040 target."

She also mentioned the benefits of cleaner air around hospitals.