Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance - our new charity partner for 2026 and 2027
4 months ago
We are delighted to announce our new charity partner for 2026 and 2027 is Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
We will spend the next two years raising funds and awareness to help the charity keep its life-saving service operational.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance delivers critical care to people in their moment of greatest need. Its specialist doctors and paramedics respond to emergencies across the island and mainland, providing hospital-level treatment at the scene. From road traffic collisions to cardiac arrests, every mission is powered entirely by donations - with no government or NHS funding.
“Every year crew respond to thousands of people having the worst day of their lives. Whether they’ve been involved in a road traffic collision, suffered a cardiac arrest or had a serious medical episode, our dedicated team doctors, dispatchers, pilots and paramedics are there to give each and every patient the very best chance of survival and recovery,” said Keith Wilson, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Director of Income and Engagement.
“In 2025 we responded to a record number of emergencies for the fourth consecutive year - with our helicopters currently reaching anywhere on the island within 20 minutes from take-off.
“Through our major capital project - Operation Airbase - we aim to halve this time, ensuring faster care and a greater chance of survival.
“By choosing us as its charity partner, Southern Vectis will play a vital role in helping us reach the finish line in what will be the most transformative step in our charity’s history. We have £1.1 million left to raise to help convert and equip our new purpose-designed airbase - a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform how we deliver life-saving care across the island.
“Our partnership isn’t just about raising money. It’s about saving lives and empowering the community Southern Vectis serves every day. “
Richard Tyldesley, Southern Vectis general manager, added: “This is a vital part of our local community, and the charity relies on donations from those living and working here.
“Our corporate charity is voted for by the Southern Vectis team. Some of my colleagues have benefited or will benefit directly from the support the air ambulance provides, so we are delighted to be backing this very worthy cause, and raising as much money as possible over the coming years.”
Southern Vectis has a busy two years ahead and is also promoting the charity on-board and on the rear of one of its buses.
“Hopefully, the messages will be seen by thousands travelling across the island - and this will help increase awareness for this very worthy cause,” added Richard.
For more information about Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, please visit hiowaa.org