The County Air Ambulance HELP Appeal is proud to announce its seventh grant of £250,000 to the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS). This brings the total contribution since the partnership began in 2019 to £1.75 million – a milestone that reflects the ongoing commitment to improving patient outcomes at the scene of emergencies across the country.
Through this vital funding, BASICS has been able to provide direct grants to schemes nationwide, ensuring frontline volunteers have the equipment and resources needed to deliver advanced medical support in critical situations.
BASICS is a network of highly skilled doctors, nurses, and paramedics who volunteer their free time and expertise to support NHS Ambulance Services. By schemes being on-call around the clock, these professionals provide a rapid response at major incidents, offering care that can make the difference between life and death.
Previous funding from the HELP Appeal has equipped volunteers with critical care cars fitted with advanced medical technology, crucial protective gear and lifesaving devices including defibrillators and patient monitors. These resources have significantly strengthened the ability of BASICS’ volunteers to respond effectively to emergencies wherever they arise.
Gary Morgan Chief Officer of BASICS, expressed his appreciation for the charity’s continued support, saying:
“The grant funding makes a massive difference to local BASICS schemes and their network of volunteers. Ultimately the provision of this funding helps save lives through delivery of expert pre-hospital care in local communities.”
Robert Bertram, Chief Executive of the County Air Ambulance HELP Appeal, added:
“We know that every second counts in a medical emergency. By providing funding that puts better equipment and vehicles into the hands of these exceptional volunteers, we’re helping them save more lives, more quickly. The dedication of these professionals is extraordinary, and it is a privilege for the HELP Appeal to continue backing their work. None of this would be possible without the kindness of our supporters and we remain deeply grateful for their commitment.”
Further details on the schemes that will benefit from this latest round of funding will be announced soon.
Video: Dr Andy Pountney MStJ MBChB (Hons) MRCP FRCEM FIMC,RCSEd, BASICS Chair speaks about the impact of the HELP Appeal’s funding
