Yearly cost for our lifesaving work surpasses £5m
Friday, 14 March 2025
Last year the Charity was called to a record number of 1,343 missions, showing the need for their critical care has never been greater.
More than half of all missions (51%) were attended with doctors on board, which is important as this enhances the level of medical care that can be provided to the patient.
However, it comes at a cost, especially at a time when the Charity continues to feel the pressures of rising utility bills, fuel, and the increase in National Insurance contributions from April.
Chief executive David Philpott said: “We know the demand for our medical expertise has never been greater and that puts understandable pressures upon the Charity.
“Just like people across the country, we have been experiencing sharp rises in our utility bills, as well as fuel for our helicopter.
“It is part of our long-term strategy to ensure critical care doctors are part of our aircrew as much as possible, as they can carry out much-needed surgical procedures and medical interventions.
"To be able to attend the majority of our missions with doctors on board is amazing for the people of Wiltshire and Bath. However, that adds further cost pressures to deliver the enhanced clinical care a doctor brings."
“We are very fortunate that the people of Wiltshire and Bath have supported our Charity for 35 years, digging deep to donate the necessary funds needed so we can continue to be there for those people who need us most.”
Critical care doctors have been part of Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity’s crew since 2019. They can carry out procedures such as repairing heart wounds, caesarean sections and anaesthetising patients.
Medical director Maria Smith said: “Having doctors on board massively enhances the level of critical care we can provide, enabling us to carry out complex surgical procedures, advanced pain management, and lifesaving interventions directly at the scene.
“Essentially, we can bring the hospital to the patient, and every mission we undertake represents someone’s loved one - a parent, child, sibling, or friend. Ensuring we have the resources to deliver the best possible care is our priority.
“We are so grateful to the people of Wiltshire and Bath for their generosity and ongoing support over the years. Now, more than ever, we need that support to sustain our vital service.”
Operating since 1990, Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity celebrates its 35th anniversary this month.
Write your Will for free!
Did you know we offer a service that enables individuals and couples to have their Will made for free?
Find out more