The annual cost of sustaining Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s crucial lifesaving operations has surged to £4.5 million, marking an 11% increase from the prior £4 million fundraising target. This increase is attributed to various factors, as explained by Charity Chairman Rob Kevan.
Kevan elaborated, “We continue to build resilience within our aircrew rota, with more pre-hospital doctors now on board than ever before.
“In addition, we remain committed to advancing the training and development of our critical care paramedics and trainee critical care paramedics.”
“However, in our endeavour to enhance our patient care, with investment in clinical upskilling we have to contend with rising costs, including fuel and utility bills, and those associated with our Devizes charity shop.”
He highlighted the intensified fundraising challenge, with the annual target now standing at £4.5 million, equivalent to generating over £12,000 daily.
Kevan expressed confidence in the dedicated charity team, emphasizing their resilience amid challenges, including the recent Cost-of-Living crisis and the ongoing impact of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Wiltshire Air Ambulance relies solely on public and local business generosity, receiving no regular direct government funding or National Lottery grants. Operating up to 19 hours a day, 365 days a year, the charity’s aircrew handles an average of three lifesaving missions daily.
