Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is proud to announce its participation in this year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, calling on supporters to help raise £20,420 in just one week. As part of the charities ‘Equipped to Respond, Ready to Save’ campaign, the funds raised will go towards replacing aging flight suits and helmets—vital protective equipment that keeps YAA’s lifesaving crew safe on every mission.
To reach this goal, YAA supporters must raise £10,210 during the campaign week, which runs from midday on Tuesday, 3rd December, until midday on Tuesday, 10th December. Every pound donated during this period will be matched by champion funder Candis and pledge funder Beadlam Tractor Run, effectively doubling the impact of every donation. Once the target is reached, they will each generously contribute £5,104, unlocking a total of £20,420 and making every contribution, critical to the campaign’s success.
Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s medical and aviation crew rely on specialised flight suits and helmets to perform their lifesaving work safely and effectively. These high-performance uniforms are designed to meet strict aviation and medical standards, providing vital protection both in the air and on the ground. As the demands of their work take a toll on this essential kit, replacing aging equipment is critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of YAA’s operations. Without this protective gear, the charity’s ability to respond and deliver exceptional care to patients across the region would be compromised.
Additionally, helmets are particularly vital for the team, as they are fitted with mounts for night vision goggles (NVGs), which are essential for safely operating YAA’s fleet of helicopters in low-light conditions or during night missions. Without NVGs, YAA’s critical care team would be unable to fly after dark, limiting the services operational hours.
Garry Brasher, one of YAA’s longest-serving pilots, emphasised the importance of this campaign, he said, “Our flight suits and helmets are more than just uniforms – they’re essential tools that protect us and allow us to perform our roles effectively. From the tough conditions we face on the ground to the complex demands of flying in Yorkshire’s varied landscapes, this kit is vital to keeping our team safe. The advanced equipment not only supports our daily operations but also aligns with our vision of creating a Centre of Clinical Excellence, ensuring we meet Civil Aviation Authority requirements. Replacing aging equipment is an ongoing priority, and we’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of those who support campaigns like The Big Give to help make this possible.”
Yorkshire Air Ambulance is participating in The Big Give for the second consecutive year. In 2023, the charity successfully raised £19,000, covering the charities then daily operational costs. As an independent charity, YAA relies entirely on the generosity and support of people across Yorkshire to fund its vital service, ensuring that the crew can continue to deliver lifesaving care to those in need.
Kerry Dwyer, Director of Public Fundraising at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her sincere thanks to all supporters ahead of the campaign. She said, “The flight suits and helmets we are raising funds for are vital to our crew’s safety and ability to perform lifesaving missions across Yorkshire. Thanks to our generous match funders, every pound donated during The Big Give will be doubled – turning a £10 donation into a £20 contribution, without any extra cost to the donor.
On behalf of everyone at YAA, I extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who is able to donate to our Big Give campaign. Whether big or small, every contribution will make a significant impact and without your support, reaching our target would not be possible”.
To learn more about The Big Give or to make a donation, please click here and help YAA reach its goal before midday on Tuesday, 10th December, to help keep the crew ready to save lives in the year ahead.