Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance set to mark 10th anniversary
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Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) is set to mark 10 years since it launched its life-saving service.
It was formed on May 22, 2013 and has evolved to become a much respected and vital part of Scotland’s emergency response network.
Launching with an initial base at Perth Airport, SCAA now sustains two bases – Perth and Aberdeen – with crew, helicopter and rapid response vehicle at each, standing ready 365 days a year to attend emergencies all across Scotland and its many islands.
Chief executive David Craig said: "The cost of maintaining a charity like SCAA is considerable but the Scottish public has been there for us every step of the way.
"In our first decade they have donated around £50 million, enabling us to save thousands of lives, impact on thousands more and bring help and hope to our more remote and rural communities.
"We have responded to nearly 5000 call outs, ensuring those most seriously ill or injured have paramedic or doctor attention as quickly as possible and are airlifted to advanced hospital care in the fastest possible time.
"The SCAA Board of Trustees took a measured risk launching our first aircraft in 2013, but the charity was, initially, supported by some prominent funders leading to incredible public support.
"Within months, the distinctive SCAA helicopter became known throughout Scotland which galvanised further community response to what they recognised as a life-saving service, dependent on charitable donations.
"Now that public giving is helping to support our life-saving service as demand and costs continue to increase, with more than £7 million required in our 10th anniversary year.
"We are humbled and heartened by a generous public that we hope will help fly us into the future and ensure SCAA is there for those most in need.
"We thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for taking SCAA to your hearts and keeping us in the air.
"Tragically and very suddenly, in recent days, our chairman and one of the founding trustees, John Bullough MBE, passed away.
"His drive and enthusiasm for SCAA was remarkable. John would often finish by stating: 'SCAA truly is The People’s Helicopter – Funded by the people of Scotland, for the people of Scotland'.
"Everyone at SCAA is committed to ensuring that this is his legacy. Hopefully, you will continue to support us where you can and climb on board for the next 10 years of Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance."
