Like everyone else across region at the moment, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) have been keeping a very close watch on the developing situation with regards to Coronavirus. We are being guided by Government and PHE advice in relation to our staff and volunteer wellbeing.
With regards to the operational side of the Charity, as it stands today, it is business as usual. Our crews are on stand-by, ready to respond to 999 emergencies where we are needed the most. We are liaising very closely with our partners at the Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, and are working with them to ensure we continue to provide the best possible care to the people of Yorkshire. Our Paramedics and Doctors, like all other emergency service workers, continue to uphold vigorous hygiene standards on both our helicopters and RRV’s, and are stocked with the appropriate protective equipment.
Regarding the Charity side of the YAA, in the last few days we have seen a huge impact on our events planned over the next few months. As these are classed as social gatherings, many of these have now been cancelled to help to try and reduce the spread of Coronavirus – something we fully support. It is vitally important we all do our bit to start social-distancing from each other, in order to help reduce the infection rate. Our main priority is the health and safety of our staff, crews, Pilots, volunteers and the wider community, and we do not wish to put anyone at unnecessary risk.
Whilst we are disappointed that we won’t be able to attend many of these wonderful events over the next few months, we know it is the right thing to do. Our office is still open, and we’re working to minimise risk for any employees that are based there. Any members of staff who are able to work at home are doing so.
You can continue to contact your local area fundraisers via email – see here for details: https://www.yorkshireairambulance.org.uk/contact-us-careers/contact-us/ Our office is available on 01422 237900 or by emailing info@yaa.org.uk
If you do wish to still continue to support our vital work, please consider donating some recyclable items if you’re clearing out, or by making a donation online at https://www.yorkshireairambulance.org.uk/support-us/donate/
As always, we would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support and send our best wishes to anyone affected by this awful virus.
Please stay safe and look after yourselves and your loved ones.