Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is urging local communities to get involved in this year’s Air Ambulance Week, taking place from Monday, 9 September to Sunday, 15 September.

The life-saving charity, which relies on public donations, hopes to see strong community participation through fundraising events, one-off donations, and regular contributions.

The charity has a range of activities planned to raise awareness and engage with the public, but they are also encouraging individuals and groups to host their own events.

Options for supporting the cause include signing up for the charity’s weekly lottery at £5 per month, making a one-off donation of £10, or pledging a regular donation.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance plays a critical role in emergency medical care, bringing highly trained doctors and specialist practitioners directly to patients when they need it most.

The service is entirely funded by public donations, with operational costs nearing £10 million annually. Each mission costs approximately £3,500, making every contribution during Air Ambulance Week essential to the charity’s ongoing operations.

Charles Hackett, CEO of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, emphasised the importance of public support during this crucial fundraising period.

He said: “Last year we were tasked to over 2,900 incidents; the charity’s busiest year on record. This shows how many people in our area need the enhanced and critical care that we provide, care that is otherwise not available outside of hospital.

“Next year, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance will be 25 years old. To reach all the patients that need our care and to increase the hours we are available, we need to boost our aviation capabilities and develop an operational base suitable for 24-hour operations.

“Your support is vital in enabling us to reach every patient that needs us, so on behalf of them, thank you.”

One popular way to participate is by hosting a ‘Brew for the Crew’ event, which invites people to gather over a cup of tea and some treats while raising money.

The charity provides free resources to help make these events successful, including a fundraising pack, cake recipes, and promotional materials.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance website at www.dsairambulance.org.uk.