Air Ambulances UK Seeks Political Backing for General Election
Air Ambulances UK (AAUK) is rallying political support for critical policy initiatives to bolster the lifesaving work of the UK's air ambulance charities. With a surge in demand for their services and increasing operational costs, AAUK emphasizes the need for sustained backing from political parties and prospective parliamentary candidates (PPCs) as the country gears up for the forthcoming general election.
The vital role of air ambulance services:
Highlighting the indispensable role played by air ambulance crews, AAUK underscores their ability to bring advanced critical care directly to patients facing life-threatening emergencies or trauma. Operating across the UK, these crews often reach the scene within an average of 16 minutes, ensuring prompt and specialized intervention.
Escalating Demand and Operational Costs:
AAUK reveals staggering statistics reflecting the escalating demand for air ambulance services. In 2023 alone, missions surged by 53%, totaling over 46,000, underscoring the growing need for resources and support to sustain these lifesaving operations. Additionally, the average cost of air ambulance helicopter missions increased by 4% in 2023, placing further strain on vital charitable resources.
Policy pledges to address challenges:
In collaboration with Air Ambulances UK Member Charities, AAUK has formulated four critical policy pledges aimed at addressing these challenges effectively.
Enhancing Hospital Infrastructure:
AAUK calls for the assurance of 24/7 accessible on-site primary hospital helipads across all UK major trauma centers and specialist hospitals. This pledge also advocates for safeguarding processes to protect hospital helipads against adverse effects from planning and developments, along with proactive engagement in strategic planning discussions.
Access to Patient Data:
AAUK advocates for secure access to NHS patient data for air ambulance charities, enabling them to gain deeper insights into the patient pathway and outcomes, thereby enhancing their ability to deliver optimal care.
Supporting Sustainable Funding:
To address the financial challenges faced by air ambulance charities, AAUK calls for support in enhancing income generation through the distribution of UK-wide grants and capital funding. This measure aims to ensure equitable service provision amidst the surge in demand and increased operational costs.
Opposing Proposed Statutory Levy on Lotteries:
AAUK opposes the proposed statutory levy of 0.1% of 'gross gambling yield' (GGY) on lotteries and advocates for a continuation of the current system of voluntary contributions. This stance recognizes the unique contribution of lotteries to charitable causes, including air ambulances.
CEO's Call to Action:
Simmy Akhtar, CEO of Air Ambulances UK, underscores the importance of these pledges in ensuring the delivery of lifesaving care to individuals across the UK. Akhtar urges political stakeholders to prioritize support for air ambulance charities, emphasizing that each pledge represents a step towards a safer and more resilient future for all communities.
