2023-09 Wiltshire Air Ambulance talk
John, a volunteer for Wiltshire Air Ambulance, gave a fascinating talk about this much-needed service, that costs £4 million a year (£11,000 per day) to keep operational, with no regular direct funding from the Government or National Lottery - it is supported mainly by public donations. The helicopter is a Bell 429, carrying out the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), with a highly-qualified crew comprising a pilot and two critical care personnel (a Doctor and Paramedic, or two Paramedics).
The Mission Map for 2022 shows that 1,061 missions were carried out that year, including 69 in Salisbury, 83 in Bath and 173 in Swindon. Wiltshire and surrounding counties share their air ambulances as required in emergencies. On average, 3 potentially lifesaving missions are carried out each day!
As well as essential lifesaving equipment, the Air Ambulance carries 4 units of plasma, 2 units of O negative and 2 of O positive blood, which the critical care crew are qualified to use for blood transfusions.
If you are interested in supporting the Air Ambulance, you can find details on their website: wiltshireairambulance.co.uk
Chris Crosby