Air Ambulances UK

HISTORY

Disclaimer: We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, as the details have been gathered through archival research, there may be some discrepancies.

  • 2005

    The Air Ambulance Foundation

    During this period, there were several attempts to establish an organisation that could represent and support the interests of the UK’s Air Ambulance charities on a national basis. However, these efforts were formed and subsequently dissolved over the years. Eventually these attempts evolved into the organisation now known as Air Ambulances UK.

  • 2005 - 2007

    Confederation Helicopter Ambulance Services (CHAS)

    (Unincorporated entity)

    CHAS functioned as a membership organisation led by a sector supplier. It focused on supporting the advancement and expansion of air ambulance services, including managing the controlled allocation of funds to its member charities and ambulance services.

    2005 - 2007

  • 2007 - 2008

    Association of Air Ambulance Charities

    (Unincorporated entity)

    This association operated as a membership organisation managed by air ambulance charities. It aimed to promote the development and enhancement of air ambulance operations, with an emphasis on distributing funds among its member charities.

  • 2008 - 2012

    Association of Air Ambulances

    (Unincorporated entity)

    The Association of Air Ambulances brought together air ambulance charities and ambulance services as a membership organisation. Its mission was to support the sector’s growth and development, including overseeing the distribution of funds to both charities and ambulance services within its membership.

    In November 2012, the Association made the decision to transition into a Limited by Guarantee organisation. Incorporation provided a platform for more efficient decision-making. This shift enhanced productivity and ultimately improved the Association’s overall output.

    2008 - 2012

  • 2013

    Association of Air Ambulances Ltd

    The Association of Air Ambulances Ltd operated as a membership organisation run by air ambulance charities and ambulance services, with the vision of improving patient outcomes through outstanding services to its members. It served as a voice for the UK air ambulance community, representing it to governments, legislators, supporters, and the public. The Association focused on delivering services that supported the unique needs of its members, driving the development and growth of air ambulance operations while providing tangible returns on membership subscriptions.

    In 2013, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Air Ambulances (APPGAA) was established, providing a key platform for lobbying on behalf of the air ambulance sector. As part of these efforts, a detailed report was presented to HMRC and Treasury Ministers outlining the impact of VAT and fuel duty on air ambulance operations. The Department of Health requested the Treasury to lead a review, and a meeting was held with Senior Policy Advisors at the Treasury alongside affected members. These issues were also raised through the APPGAA, fostering ongoing dialogue with its members and policymakers. However, the APPGAA was dissolved during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted its activities and engagement.

  • 2015

    Association of Air Ambulances (Charity) Ltd

    The charity was established in January 2015 as a private company limited by guarantee.

    2015

  • 2018

    Strengthening Partnerships and Driving Innovation

    2018 was a pivotal year, with partnerships such as Allianz and Costcutter providing crucial support to air ambulance charities. The three-year partnership with Allianz exceeded its £1 million fundraising target, with over 4,000 employees actively contributing. Other partnerships, including Roadchef and MRH Retail, also delivered valuable funding.

    The charity rebranded from the Association of Air Ambulances (Charity) Ltd to Air Ambulances UK, launching a new identity and website while exploring innovative fundraising approaches like cashless digital giving. These efforts supported air ambulance charities in expanding operations, investing in advanced training and equipment, and delivering lifesaving missions, entirely funded by donations.

  • 2019

    Present - Air Ambulances UK

    In 2019, the Association of Air Ambulances Ltd and the Association of Air Ambulances (Charity) Ltd merged to form Air Ambulances UK as a unified charity, following a review by Eastside Primetimers which ensured a seamless unification, establishing a stronger national organisation to better support air ambulance charities.

    Trustees prioritised growing the fundraising pipeline, strengthening governance, and shaping the new unified structure.

    New partnerships with Unipart Logistics and Haynes Publishing, alongside continued support from B&M and the National Trainers Federation, bolstered the charity’s work.

    2019

  • 2020

    £6M Government Grant, COVID-19 Response, and First CEO Appointment

    In response to the challenges of COVID-19, Air Ambulances UK successfully lobbied the government to secure £6M in emergency funding for air ambulance charities. This vital support helped fund lifesaving missions, provide over 6,000 items of PPE, infection control equipment, and facilitate crucial patient transfers.

    We partnered with BP Fuel for free fuel, UKHospitality for crew accommodation, and introduced mental health and bereavement support initiatives. Virtual forums connected members across the UK, enabling knowledge sharing and peer support. Despite immense challenges, air ambulance charities continued their lifesaving work, supported by our efforts to champion their needs nationally.

    December 2020: Appointment of First CEO

    Another milestone in Air Ambulances UK’s history was the appointment of its first CEO, Simmy Akhtar, in December 2020. Simmy joined the team in 2021 to lead the delivery of a new five-year strategy, building on the significant successes the charity had already achieved and further advancing its mission to support the UK’s air ambulance sector.

  • 2021

    Adapting and Advancing: Air Ambulances UK’s Progress

    In 2021, Air Ambulances UK (AAUK) navigated global challenges, including the ongoing impact of COVID-19, inflation, and supply chain pressures. The charity launched its new strategy, Saving More Lives Together 2021-25, and made significant strides in its strategic goals. AAUK introduced and prepared the Jude Morris Innovation and Development Fund for launch to support emerging technologies and research in pre-hospital emergency medicine. The charity also raised awareness of key safety issues, such as the dangers posed by drones to air ambulance missions, through a partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority.

    Digital engagement flourished, with a successful Air Ambulance Week conference focusing on vital topics like sustainability and cardiac arrest survival. The charity strengthened its governance, ensuring financial sustainability and laying the groundwork for future initiatives, including an Environmental Sustainability Strategic Innovation Committee.

    2021

  • 2022

    Progress, Challenges, and Key Achievements

    In 2022, Air Ambulances UK (AAUK) continued to address the challenges faced by the air ambulance sector, focusing on collaboration and sharing experiences. This helped the charity stay ahead of issues such as the cost of living, global uncertainties, and rising demand for services. A key achievement was the launch of the Innovation and Development Fund, established in memory of Jude Morris, which provided lifesaving grants to air ambulance charities.

    The charity’s work included raising national awareness of its cause, especially during Air Ambulance Week, and engaging with MPs to help secure an amendment to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal eligibility criteria, to include air ambulance emergency responders. In-person events returned, with AAUK attending national events and hosting its first post-Covid in-person Annual Conference and Awards of Excellence.

    The year also saw AAUK’s continued focus on diversifying fundraising efforts and driving forward digital and data-driven projects, including collaborations on blood products and the Pre-hospital Research and Audit Network Data Project. As part of its environmental sustainability initiative, AAUK worked with member charities to reduce emissions and strengthen community links. AAUK’s income showed an increase despite another challenging year, thanks to the hard work and innovative ideas of the team and support from donors and members.

    Ageas Partnership
    In 2022, Ageas, a leading UK insurer, partnered with Air Ambulances UK after an employee vote. Fundraising efforts supported five air ambulance charities, with activities including the Welsh Three Peaks challenge, which raised £8,288, the Great South Run, “Brew for the Crew” campaign, and a chocolate raffle. A special promotion with price comparison websites also donated a portion of sales to AAUK. The partnership continued into 2023 and 2024.

     

    SWiFT Trial: Study of Whole Blood in Frontline Trauma
    AAUK supported the SWiFT Trial, exploring the use of whole blood (WB) in trauma care. Led by NHS Blood and Transplant and Defence Medical Services, the study aims to assess the effectiveness of WB in improving patient outcomes. The trial’s results could influence future pre-hospital trauma care and save lives. The SWiFT Trial concluded in September 2024. The study, led by NHS Blood and Transplant and Defence Medical Services, is now in the process of analysing results to assess the effectiveness of whole blood (WB) in trauma care. Findings from this trial have the potential to influence the future of pre-hospital trauma treatment and improve patient outcomes.

  • 2023

    A Year of Progress and Collaboration

    2023 marked a year of significant achievements and growth for Air Ambulances UK, highlighting the collective strength and commitment of the air ambulance community. With a focus on national partnerships, fundraising, advocacy, and collaboration, the organisation continued to raise awareness and support for the life-saving work carried out by air ambulance charities across the UK.

    Key milestones included the strengthening of corporate partnerships, such as the high-profile collaboration with Kwik Fit, which played a crucial role in supporting the sector. The launch of the Air Ambulance Fundraising Academy helped enhance fundraising skills, and the inaugural re-launched All-Party Parliamentary Group for Air Ambulances meeting in Parliament provided a platform for important policy discussions.

    AAUK also continued its commitment to innovation with the Jude Morris Innovation and Development Fund, supporting groundbreaking initiatives like drone medical services and improving stroke care. Through these initiatives and more, 2023 proved to be a year of progress and collective effort, all focused on ensuring the future success and sustainability of air ambulance services.

    Kwik Fit Partnership

    In 2023, Air Ambulances UK announced Kwik Fit as its national charity partner. This strategic partnership focused on saving more lives and enhancing pre-hospital care. Kwik Fit enabled micro-donations on both their website and in centre at point of sale, through Pennies.  Employees and Kwik Fit suppliers participated in fundraising activities, both on a national and local level, further strengthening the connection between corporate partnerships and life-saving services.

    All-Party Parliamentary Group for Air Ambulances (APPGAA)

    A significant milestone for the year was the re-launch of the APPGAA. In July 2023, the inaugural meeting provided a platform to discuss crucial issues such as helipads and landing sites. The group successfully raised awareness of the challenges the sector faces, with support from both ministers and peers in Parliament.

    Air Ambulance Fundraising Academy

    AAUK launched the Air Ambulance Fundraising Academy in partnership with Corndel. The fully-funded, 13-month program aimed to enhance the skills of air ambulance fundraisers and culminated in a Chartered Institute of Fundraising Level 3 Foundation Certificate. This initiative helped elevate fundraising capabilities within the sector.

    AAUK Ambassador Scheme

    In 2023, AAUK introduced its Ambassador Scheme to further amplify its mission. High-profile figures like Charlotte Hawkins, Derek Redmond, Oliver Townend, Bishop Sarah Mullally, Steve Parrish, and David Domoney played pivotal roles in raising awareness and advocating for the sector, roles they continue to hold today.

    Jude Morris Innovation and Development Fund

    AAUK continued its collaboration with the Morris family through the Jude Morris Innovation and Development Fund. The fund awarded grants to initiatives such as pioneering drone medical projects and enhancing stroke diagnosis. These efforts contribute to saving more lives and advancing the sector’s technological capabilities.

    2023

  • 2024

    A Year of Milestones and Achievements for Air Ambulances UK

    Air Ambulances UK achieved several milestones in 2024, including impactful campaigns and strengthened partnerships.

    Pete Wishart Elected as APPGAA Chair

    On 30 January, Pete Wishart MP was elected Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Air Ambulances (APPGAA) during an Extraordinary General Meeting. Pete, the Scottish National Party MP for Perth and North Perthshire, brought his extensive parliamentary experience to the role, succeeding Robert Courts MP, who stepped down after being appointed Solicitor General.

    2024 General Election Manifesto

    Ahead of the next General Election, Air Ambulances UK launched its 2024 General Election Manifesto, outlining four key policy pledges: improving helipad accessibility, securing safe access to NHS patient data, enhancing income generation, and opposing a statutory levy on charity lotteries. These pledges aimed to address a 53% increase in missions reported in 2023 and ensure sustainable support for air ambulance operations.

    BBC Lifeline Appeal

    In September, the BBC Lifeline Appeal, presented by Rav Wilding, showcased the vital work of air ambulance charities across the UK through the stories of Riley, Jane, and David. The appeal, which was partially match funded by corporate partner Ageas, raised over £42,000 for the sector.

    Air Ambulances UK at BTCC

    The partnership with Kwik Fit during the 2024 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) raised £21,095.88 to support air ambulance charities. Highlights included appearances by Ambassador Derek Redmond, Árón Taylor-Smith’s triumph as Independent Champion, AAUK’s teddy mascot walking the grid, and fundraising initiatives such as auctioning a custom race suit.

    National Partnerships Drive Success

    Collaborations with national partners Briggs Equipment, Peninsula, and Auto Cycle Union provided significant support. Briggs Equipment raised an impressive £125,104, while Peninsula has committed to raising £1 million over three years.

    Air Ambulance Week: Our Most Successful Campaign Yet

    Air Ambulance Week 2024 was the most successful campaign to date, featuring a Royal Mail postage frank mark, support from the Prince of Wales, and national radio coverage. A campaign video starring ambassadors, BTCC drivers, and air ambulance charity staff reached millions and celebrated the lifesaving work of the sector.

    Together, we continue to save lives, advance critical care, and champion the incredible efforts of air ambulance charities across the UK