North West Air Ambulance Charity

Operating every day of the year, their helicopters and HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) response vehicles are crucial components of the emergency medical network in the North West. Each aircraft is equipped with a team of highly skilled specialist doctors and HEMS paramedics who provide advanced pre-hospital care. They are also responsible for facilitating hospital transfers, ensuring that patients receive timely and critical medical attention. This essential service covers an expansive region of 5,500 square miles and serves a population of over 8 million people annually. Since the charity was established in 1999, it has undertaken an impressive number of missions—over 24,500 across the North West. This equates to an average of approximately three call-outs each day, highlighting the constant demand for their specialized services. Each mission represents a critical intervention, often in life-threatening situations where immediate medical care is essential.

To maintain their high level of service and continue operating effectively, the charity must raise over £12 million every year. This significant amount of funding is necessary to cover the costs associated with maintaining and running their helicopters, medical equipment, and the team of dedicated professionals. Notably, the charity does not receive any financial support from the government or the NHS. Instead, their operations are entirely funded by the generosity of private donors and the public. It is through the continued support and donations from individuals and communities that the charity can sustain its vital work, flying to the rescue and saving lives throughout the region.