KSS, one of the largest and busiest air ambulance charities in the UK, is concerned that the continued dramatic increase in aviation fuel cost will place even more pressure on its financial sustainability in an already very challenging fundraising environment.
The charity currently responds to around nine of the most serious medical emergencies a day across the South East, including to people critically injured in road traffic collisions or experiencing a sudden illness such as a cardiac arrest. Its highly skilled clinicians deliver specialist interventions at scene – once only available in hospital – including blood transfusions, general anaesthesia, and open-chest surgery, to give every patient the best possible chance of survival when every second counts.
KSS Chief Executive, David Welch, said:
“As a charity, and the only air ambulance for the South East of England, we’re growing increasingly concerned at the continued significant increase in the cost of aviation fuel which presents a huge challenge for us financially.
“While we have mitigation plans in place, the unprecedented 63% rise in the cost of aviation fuel means that we now need to raise even more funding from within our communities, where so many people are also facing an increasingly difficult financial climate, to help keep us flying.
“Our helicopters are a genuine lifeline for people within our communities and that’s why we want to ensure we can be here for the millions of people living, working, visiting or travelling through the South East, ready to respond and ensure the best possible patient outcomes when the very worst happens.”
David concludes: “Every lifesaving mission we make is almost entirely funded by the kindness and generosity of our communities. That’s why ongoing and increased public support for KSS during these challenging times is more vital than ever in helping us to reach patients and save lives.”
As well as encouraging crucial public support, KSS is also actively working with Air Ambulances UK, the national organisation representing air ambulance charities across the country. This work is aimed at ensuring Government and policy makers recognise the vital frontline emergency service provided by air ambulance charities and take action to protect them from further aviation fuel cost rises.
To support KSS with rising fuel costs, got to aakss.org.uk/donate
