The national awareness week, organised by Air Ambulances UK, will see Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance join other air ambulance charities around the country in a campaign called ‘Critical Moments – Life-Saving Difference’. The campaign highlights how air ambulance charities make a life-saving difference in critical moments, by rapidly delivering advanced pre-hospital care directly to the side of patients when suffering a life-threatening injury or illness.

Last year, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance were tasked to 2,231 incidents. Their critical care team also provided 36 time-critical inter-hospital transfers and administered blood products to 41 patients, drastically improving their chances of getting to hospital alive. With no direct Government or National Lottery funding, they rely on the generosity of the public to help raise their operational costs of over £5 million a year, with every mission costing approximately £3,000.

During Air Ambulance Week, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is asking the public to donate £5 in support of their life-saving work. This can be done via a mobile phone by texting: DSAA to 70085. (Texts cost £5 plus one standard rate message). Alternatively, you can donate online via our website or by calling: 01823 669604.

The charity will also be using the week to raise awareness of their work via their social media channels, by sharing some inspiring patient stories and messages from their critical care team, who help to save lives every day.

Emma Jones, Fundraising Manager for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, said: Your support this Air Ambulance Week is more vital than ever. We totally understand that times are hard, but every penny we raise during the week, will help us to continue being there for patients when they need us the most. Every donation counts, no matter the amount, so please, if you can, pick up your mobile phone and donate by text, or visit our website to show you support.