Essex & Herts Air Ambulance attends parliamentary reception at the House of Commons

Representatives from Essex & Herts Air Ambulance attended a special parliamentary reception held at the house of commons this week which attracted support from key political figures to raise awareness of the lifesaving work of the air ambulance crews.

Over 70 members of parliament attended the event, which was organised by Air Ambulances UK, the national charity supporting the lifesaving work of the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities, and opened by Stephen Metcalfe, Conservative MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock.

The reception aimed to raise matters of importance and priorities of the sector through engagement with political leaders and policy makers on key issues that relate to air ambulance charities lifesaving services.

The key issues and challenges raised included: increased demand and increased costs, safe access to patient data, and access to and engagement with helipads and landing sites.

Simmy Akhtar, Air Ambulances UK CEO said “We were delighted to host the Parliamentary Reception at the House of Commons for the first time since 2019 due to the impact of Covid-19. It was wonderful to see so many parliamentarians attend to support the lifesaving work of air ambulance charities. It demonstrates MPs and Ministers regard for the air ambulance community, and the vital role that the sector plays in the urgent and emergency care system. Thank you to all those who attended and we look forward to working with key stakeholders on key challenges and issues facing our sector”

Jane Gurney, CEO of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance said: “It was so lovely for me and my team to attend the AAUK Parliamentary Reception on Monday. It gave us the opportunity to engage with a number of our local MP’s who are keen to support us and understand more about the key issues highlighted during the event. The session also gave us the opportunity to meet our colleagues, for face to face dialogue, from the other air ambulances – something that we have missed over the last few years.”

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Photo shows: Paul Curtis, Aviation & Operations Director (EHAAT), Jane Gurney CEO (EHAAT) , Stephen Metcalfe for South Basildon and East Thurrock, Pam Withrington, Fundraising & Marketing Director (EHAAT) and Adam Broom, Clinical Director (EHAAT)