History of UK Air Ambulances (England & Wales)
In 1987 the first air ambulance commenced operation in Cornwall. The following year London HEMS began operation and was soon followed by Kent in 1989. Over the next 20 years the air ambulance community has expanded to its current position where there are over 20 helicopter air ambulances nationwide being run by 16 charities.
Pivotal in the expansion of the helicopter charities was the commitment and funding put forward by the Automobile Association (AA) and the National Association of Air Ambulances Services (NAAAS).
In England and Wales helicopter air ambulances are provided by registered charities. Funding comes from a variety sources from simple tin collections, lotteries and fund raising events to major corporate sponsorship.
It should also be acknowledged the NHS also makes a significant contribution as nearly all the paramedics working on air ambulances are provided by the NHS through local ambulance services and in the case of London HEMS the doctors are also funded by the NHS.
