Introduction to Wales Air Ambulance
Wales Air Ambulance is an all Wales charity providing a vital service through emergency air cover for those who face life threatening illness or injuries.
Why are we needed?
due to it's widely scattered population and diverse landscape, many in Wales live in isolated locations far from an accident and emergency service. Also, the ever increasing problem of traffic congestion and collisions in more urban areas denotes delayed response times for land ambulances. For these reasons, there is a recognised need for three helicopters on active duty 365 days a year
How do we make a difference?
It is widely believed that a patiant's chances of survival and early recovery are increased if they recieve the right care within the first hour, otherwise known as the Golden Hour. the quick response times and the expert medical care provided by the Wales Air Ambulance crews across Wales ensure that this Golden Hour is achived every time.
Where are the Helicopters based?
There are three helimed crews based in the North (Caernarfon), Mid (Welshpool) and South (Swansea) of Wales. Each crew has of one pilot and two advanced life support paramedics who are trained in the latest techniques in pre hospital emergency care ensure the patient receives the most effective treatment
How long does it take to respond to an emergency?
Each helicopter can be launched within 3 minutes of receiving an emergency call. From the three airbases, a helicopter can be anwhere in Wales within just 20 minutes.
Who calls the ambulance out?
In Wales we have three ambulance controls, which are located in Llanfairfechan, Cwmbran and Carmarthen. When someone calls 999 for an ambulance, the call goes straight to the ambulance control. the person on the end of the phone will ask the caller a number of questions relating to the medical emergency. Ambulance control will then deploy one of the helicopters.
How much does it cost to run the service?
The charity needs to raise over £5 million per year to operate the service. The charity raises all the funds required for the day to day running of missions, with each missionon average costing £1200
How do we raise the money?
WAA is funded by the people of Wales, relying on the public support to help keep them flying. The charity does not receive direct funding from the government and because they are classed as an emergency service they also fail to qualify for national lottery funding. The money is therefore raised through charitable donations, fundraising events, and membership of their lifesaving lottery.
For more information on how you can get involved and support call 0844 8584999 or email enquiries@walesairambulance.com
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We would like to express our sincere thanks to all model clubs, traders, the model fliers, commentator, car and boat modelers from all over the UK, helpers, suppliers of equipment, Pembrokeshire County Council and, of course, the general public for their support at last years show, without whose help this event would not be possible.
Your help and support last year enabled us to raise and donate the sum of £2,170.00 to Wales Air Ambulance.
Thank you
Reg Strudley & Derek Minchin
(Show organisers)