As we publish this refreshed edition of Helipad, it feels timely to reflect on a demanding yet inspiring past six months for Devon Air Ambulance. Alongside a new look and structure for the magazine, designed to better reflect the breadth of our work, the heart of what we do remains unchanged: Being there for patients across Devon when they need us most. My personal favourite stories are always those told by patients themselves, and the impact our work has had on their lives and the lives of their loved ones.
Operational demand remains high, and our crews continue to respond with exceptional professionalism and compassion. This edition celebrates milestones such as ten years of Flying Doctors, as well as our teams working across the county to deliver lifesaving care. Behind every mission is a wider network of clinicians, pilots, engineers, support staff and volunteers whose dedication keeps our service flying.
Public support remains central to our future. As you’ll read, supporters have once again risen to extraordinary challenges, from the London Marathon to ingenious community fundraising. Our shops, business partners and lottery players continue to provide vital, dependable income.
We do face ongoing challenges. Rising costs and increasing demand mean careful planning and long‑term investment in our aircraft and crews is essential. As an independent charity, none of this is possible without you.
Thank you for helping us continue to be there - this summer and beyond.
Greg Allen Chief Executive Officer
Saving lives. Together Over Thirty Years of
Our evolution has been shaped by dedication, innovation, and the unwavering support of the Devon community.
For over three decades, we have been a lifeline for our communities; first as a means of transporting critically ill or injured patients swiftly to hospital, now as a rapid response function that brings the emergency department itself to the patient’s side. Our journey to delivering advanced, lifesaving care to patients at the scene has been extraordinary, and as we continue to innovate, collaborate, and learn, residents and visitors to Devon now benefit from an increasingly sophisticated and advanced emergency service.
In the early days, our role was simple but vital: get to the scene, collect the patient, and get them to hospital as quickly as possible. As one of our doctors who joined the air ambulance almost ten years ago puts it: “We were fast, reliable, and determined ‑ but our tools were limited. We knew getting patients to hospital quickly saved lives, but we also knew we could do more.”
Today, “more” is exactly what we do. Our crews are now highly trained pre‑hospital critical care clinicians ‑ professionals capable of delivering treatment that was once only available in a hospital setting. This includes advanced airway management, blood transfusions at
the roadside, pain relief tailored to a patient’s specific needs, and interventions that can stabilise, or even reverse, life‑threatening conditions within minutes.
Emergency care should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live or their background. That’s why we are now committed to reducing some of the disparities that exist in our communities, when it comes to life expectancy and survival rates in the event of incidents such as cardiac arrest.
One of the ways we do this is through our growing suite of Help with All Your Heart resources and training, which empowers people to recognise the signs of cardiac arrest, start CPR confidently, and use a defibrillator without hesitation. We know that early intervention saves lives, but only if people feel ready and able to step in.
Meanwhile, our post‑collision research unit, IMPACT, brings together data, research insights, and training to improve survival rates following road traffic collisions, particularly in rural communities where access to immediate specialist care can be challenging. By sharing our learning with national and international partners, and contributing to
best‑practice guidelines, we’re not only improving care on the roadside but also helping to shape a safer future for road users across the country.
A transformational milestone in our evolution has been our ability to fly and land safely at night. Reaching patients after dark once posed significant challenges limited landing sites, visibility issues, and the need for careful ground support.
Today, thanks to a network of pre‑planned community landing sites and the ability to land at ad hoc locations assessed by our crews, night operations are a seamless extension of our service. Whether it’s a farmer working late into the day who has been injured in a remote field, a family caught in a serious collision at dusk, or a coastal emergency unfolding under moonlight, our helicopters and critical care teams are ready to respond when it matters.
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But our commitment to patients doesn’t end once the patient is safely conveyed to hospital, or sadly, when, despite our best efforts, we are unable to save their life. Today, our dedicated Aftercare Team ensures that those we treat and their families receive ongoing support throughout recovery.
One family recently shared their appreciation: “The clinical care saved my husband’s life, but the aftercare helped us make sense of everything. We never felt alone.”
And as we look to the future, one thing is certain: we’ve already come a long way, but we’re not finished yet.
As our Head of Flight Operations, Richard Applegarth, explains, these advancements have given our crew far greater capabilities when responding to incidents.
“Having our community landing sites available as back up if an ad hoc site turns out to be unsuitable, helps ensure that our crews have probably the best HEMS night capability in the country when responding to our patients.”
Our evolution has been shaped by dedication, innovation, and the unwavering support of the Devon community. But it has also been driven by our belief that every patient deserves the best possible chance, no matter where they are, when they need us, or who they are.
From our earliest flights to today’s advanced pre‑hospital service, we’ve grown not just in capability, but in purpose. We’re committed to continuing to evolve our service, empowering communities, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that every patient receives expert care at the moment they need it most.
And as we look to the future, one thing is certain: we’ve already come a long way, but we’re not finished yet.
A decade of lifesaving innovation FLYING Doctors
explore an ambitious idea: bringing doctors on board the charity’s helicopters. The goal was simple but transformative - combine the expertise of doctors with the skill of paramedics to create a Critical Care Team capable of delivering hospital-level interventions at the roadside.
Doctor Kate Sharpe was one of the first doctors to join the air ambulance. “When we started, the helicopter was mainly about getting patients to hospital quickly,” Kate recalls. “Paramedics were doing an incredible job, but some interventions ‑ like pre‑hospital emergency anaesthesia, procedural sedation and surgical skills ‑ just weren’t possible. We wanted to change that to improve pre‑hospital patient care in Devon.”
Fast forward to today, and the difference is remarkable. We now operate a critical care service from 7am to 7pm, with advanced‑level paramedics and doctors working side by side. They’re called to the most complex emergencies ‑ major trauma, cardiac arrests, paediatric crises ‑ bringing resus room quality critical care to patients when every second counts.
From helicopter transport to critical care
The journey hasn’t been easy. When Kate joined the team in 2016, she had already supported the development of other helicopter emergency medical services in the UK and overseas. Devon was starting late compared to some regions, but the ambition was clear. “We knew we had to build something special and bespoke for the people of Devon. There were
significant developments in Major Trauma Care in 2012 when Plymouth and Bristol became the Major Trauma Centres for adults and children respectively. Networks were changing, and we wanted Devon Air
Ambulance to help with that evolution.”
Today, the team’s capabilities are unrecognisable compared to a decade ago. They carry advanced drugs, blood products like freeze‑dried plasma, and equipment for procedures that were once only possible in hospital.
“We’ve kept patients alive who almost certainly would have died ten years ago,” Kate says. “That’s down to the skills, the kit, and the teamwork.”
The power of clinical governance
Behind the scenes, a process called clinical governance drives this excellence. It’s a structured way of learning from every case ‑ what went well, what could be better, and what new evidence might change practice.
“We do a Rapid Peer Review within hours of each job and have in‑depth team discussions twice a week. Each month we review the most challenging cases together,” Kate explains. “If there are themes, we bring that learning back to the team. It’s about constantly improving.”
“We’re always learning and reviewing the tools and drugs we use to secure better outcomes for patients,” Kate reflects. “We also have an excellent Aftercare
Team who report on the experiences of patients and their families at our monthly clinical governance meetings.”
Education and simulation: Preparing for the rare
Education is at the heart of the team’s culture. Monthly governance days include case reviews, medical journal analysis and simulation training.
“Our recent paediatric simulation session was excellent,” Kate shares. “Dealing with critically ill babies is rare, so we rehearse those high‑acuity, low‑occurrence scenarios. From using tiny syringes to intubating young children and loading them onto the helicopter ‑ it’s all about being ready.”
The team also opens these sessions to medical students, road paramedics, and allied services, spreading knowledge across the emergency care network.
“We’re not just educating our own team; we’re educating the partners we work with,” Kate adds. “Some of our development has already contributed to research in pre‑hospital care with many of our paramedics completing Masters degrees and one chairing the National HEMS Research and Audit Forum.”
Looking ahead: The next chapter
As we celebrate this tenth anniversary, our focus is on consolidating achievements and shaping the future.
“We’ve had this big acceleration,” Kate reflects.
“Now we need to decide what we’ll be really good at ‑ whether that’s teaching exemplary pre‑hospital care or leading research into preventing road deaths. Whatever we choose, it will be alongside delivering the highest quality care for our patients.”
For Kate, the milestone is personal. “I enjoy being reflective about the jobs we’ve done and what learning can come from them,” she says. “It’s been a team effort to develop this service, and we’re proud of where we’re at ‑ and excited for what’s next. Whatever the future holds here in Devon, it will be about delivering the highest quality evidence‑based medical care for our patients.”
Our journey from helicopter transport to a doctor and paramedic critical care service has transformed emergency care in the region.
Ten years on, the mission remains the same: To give patients the best possible chance when life hangs in the balance.
From EMERGENCY CARE
to AFTERCARE
Two years ago, Adele’s life changed in an instant when she suffered a life-threatening brain haemorrhage. Here, Adele and husband, James, share their story.
In February 2024, Adele, who was 48 at the time, and her husband James, were spending their Sunday decorating their daughter’s bedroom at their home near Tavistock. While Adele said she’d had a headache that morning, there was nothing to suggest the seriousness of what was to come. “I’d just left the room, when suddenly I screamed with pain. It felt as though someone had set fire to the back of my head, I had never felt pain like it. I collapsed to the floor.”
“Fearing a stroke, James dialled 999. In fact, Adele was suffering a life‑threatening brain haemorrhage. Listening in to that 999 call was the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services team (HEMS), who work alongside 999 call handlers, deploying our crews to emergencies that can benefit from our specialist pre-hospital care.
our team placed Adele into a medically induced coma, an advanced procedure paramedics alone cannot perform.
James says, “We’re grateful to everyone who helped. We’ve been told that if it weren’t for Devon Air Ambulance’s doctor and paramedic, the only ones at the scene able to put Adele into a medically induced coma, she probably wouldn’t have survived her journey to hospital.”
Last year, I celebrated my 50th birthday and our 28th wedding anniversary, I want to say a huge thank you to Devon Air Ambulance and its supporters, because without the air ambulance team, their professionalism and kindness, I would not be here.
Due to poor weather, our crew responded by Critical Care Car. James says he could see Adele was fading, so when South Western Ambulance Service (SWAST) and Devon Air Ambulance arrived, it was a huge relief. Recognising the severity of her condition,
At Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, Adele underwent life‑saving surgery for a large, right sided intercerebral brain haemorrhage and spent ten days in intensive care. Today, while she lives with some lasting complications, doctors have told her that considering the severity of the aneurysm it’s a miracle she survived. Adele says she feels immense gratitude to her surgeon, hospital staff, SWAST and Devon Air Ambulance.
Incidents like this can be incredibly traumatic for everyone involved and that’s where our Aftercare Team come in; they, along with Critical Care paramedic, Andy, who’d helped treat Adele at the scene, visited James to see how he was coping. It’s this compassion that Adele says helped her husband come to terms with everything.
“Devon Air Ambulance isn’t just about helicopters and medical teams; it’s also their compassion. James wasn’t the medical patient, but the support they also showed him, gave him the strength to get through this.
“Last year, I celebrated my 50th birthday and our 28th wedding anniversary, I want to say a huge thank you to Devon Air Ambulance and its supporters, because without the air ambulance team, their professionalism and kindness, I would not be here.”
If we’ve helped you or a family member and you would like to share your story with us, please complete the form at the website address below or scan the QR code and a member of our team will be in touch.
husband James
Business O Business Backing with Community Conscience
A local business pledge of £155,000 helps to ensure the future of our service.
Businesses in Devon play an important role in our work, helping to fund the frontline care our patients need.
One such organisation that pledged long-term support in 2025 is the family-owned Devon business, Brechin Investments Ltd, a private investment firm, that specialises in residential and holiday park home developments across the South West, with Haytor View near Ipplepen its flagship residential Devon development.
Last year, the company donated £55,000 to our lifesaving service. Alongside this significant gift, they also committed to supporting us over the coming years. Gregg Millar, Sales Manager said:
“We are deeply committed to supporting our local communities. Devon Air Ambulance offers a vital rescue service for ill and critically injured patients right across the county. We are proud to be contributing £55,000 today to enable the charity to
continue its lifesaving work in the most challenging conditions. “
“We are also making a further £100,000 available in instalments from our park home sales in Devon over the coming years. Given its independence from government funding and reliance on public donations, we are proud to support Devon Air Ambulance to help ensure our local communities have the peace of mind of knowing they can call upon its help in their time of need.”
Every mission Devon Air Ambulance attends costs between £4,500 and £5,000, depending on the interventions a patient may need. Donations like this help us continue to deliver time-critical care to people across Devon and neighbouring counties. Brechin Investments’ generous donation and their commitment to ongoing support, is a powerful example of the difference local businesses can make.
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Greg Millar, Sales Manager at Brechin Investments Ltd & Jo Payne, DAA Philanthropy Manager
Choose your challenge & support lifesaving work this summer Get involved...
After the incredible success of summer events last year, we are hosting a whole suite of thrill-seeking, adrenaline-fuelled, fundraising challenges for supporters who want to make a difference while taking on something memorable. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, a bit of an adventure, or a race to challenge your limits, there are many exciting opportunities in the months ahead.
4 July 2026
Devon Heli Hike
Back by popular demand!
This year, Heli Hikers will be taking in some of the most breathtaking stretches of the South West Coast Path! Beginning in Bigbury and winding around South Devon, you’ll discover stunning spots including views over the Avon Estuary, Malthouse Point, Bigbury Beach, and more stunning settings. Choose from the brand‑new 6‑mile route, the 14‑mile hike, or take on the ultimate 26‑miler to experience dramatic seascapes, winding estuary, rolling hills, and the rugged beauty of South Devon.
daat.org/Helipad-hike-26
10 & 11 July
City Runs 10K daat.org/support-us
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or lacing up for your very first event, the City Runs 10K races are a fantastic opportunity to set a personal challenge while supporting our mission. We have 10 spaces available for races on the 10th and 11th July, at Exeter Quay. These promise a flat and traffic-free 10km route along the scenic footpaths of the River Exe and Exeter Quay. So, if you want to chase a new Personal Best, or tackle your first 10K, these summer evenings are ideal for all ambitions.
15 August 2026
If you’re after something fun, fearless, and a little bit silly, the Inflatable 5K is for you! You’ll bounce, slide, leap, and laugh your way around a course filled with enormous inflatable obstacles. Ideal for families, groups of friends, and anyone who prefers jumping for joy over a long‑distance slog. No experience needed, just a good dollop of enthusiasm and a willingness to get slightly out of breath! We have charity spaces currently available for the 2.5, 5, 10 or 15km inflatable races.
Take part in the Inflatable 5K 2026 – sign up here! daat.org/exeter-inflatable-5k
12 September
Ambulance Cycle Challenge
Join us for our very first Cycle Challenge! The challenge begins at Winslade Manor. From here, set off for one of the following routes: The Legend (100 miles)
The Heroic (50 miles) The Explorer (30 miles) These challenges are not for the faint hearted. Whether you’re cycling for fitness, for fun, or for someone special, this is a challenge that rewards every push of the pedal.
daat.org/cc-26
17 October
Ideal for thrillseekers, the Daring Descent abseil is the ultimate challenge of courage and confidence. With panoramic views of Plymouth Sound behind you, you will step over the edge of this historic fortress and descend the knee‑wobbling 80ft. On previous descents we’ve been joined by fearless fundraisers of all ages, all buckling up to take on this intrepid vertical challenge. So, what are you waiting for?
daat.org/abseil-2026 of all ages, all buckling up to
With plenty of events to choose from, pick your challenge, gather your support, and join us for an unforgettable summer of fundraising, all while making some incredible memories and a lifesaving difference.
For information on all events visit daat.org/events
London Marathon RUNNERS bring it home
Devon runners take on the world’s biggest annual one-day fundraising event.
The London Marathon (TLM) is a big deal. Recognised as part of the Abbot World Marathon Majors, alongside other prestigious events including Boston, Sydney and Tokyo Marathons, TLM is a red‑letter day for runners from around the world. This year, we were represented by a record‑breaking number of runners: Paul, Bob, Dan, Cal, Anna, Mark, Olivia, Jessica and Evie, who all took on the prestigious challenge, raising an incredible £25,892 so far, including Giftaid. We have been totally overwhelmed by their courageous support and wanted to say a huge thank you to all of them for their heroic contribution to our lifesaving charity, not only for raising vital lifesaving funds, but also for raising the profile of our Devon charity in front of a global audience.
On the day of the event, the 26‑mile route was graced with ideal running conditions. This perfect weather, combined with months of hard work and training, meant that all DAA runners crossed the finish line! Then, once the crowds had dispersed, this incredible day was made even more special when we met with the runners and their families to celebrate their achievements, along with air ambulance services from across the UK.
Anna Burleigh
Dan Flemming
Evie Cosgrave
Paul Robinson
Will you take on the challenge?
Running enthusiasts will be excited to learn that we have already secured spaces for the 2027, 2028 and 2029 London Marathons!
Our runners for next year have all now been chosen and notified, but if you’re interested in running for us in 2028 or 2029, keep your eyes peeled for more information which will be published on the day of the event each year. Until then, why not try one of our other running fundraisers? We currently have spaces available for the Plymouth Half, Great West Run and several 10k races in Exeter. You can register your interest here and we will reach out as spaces become available!
Visit: daat.org/events to choose the right run for you!
TLM entrant, Bob Huntington, has been running and raising funds in support of our work since 2024. Here he reflects on his motivations, inspiration and top tips for fundraisers.
Bob’s Q&A
How do I get started?
If you would like to take on a running event but don’t know where to start, look after yourself and start gently – you can do it! Get a decent pair of running shoes, find a suitable training plan and try to stick to it. For the events themselves ‑ the golden rule is not to set off too quickly so that you have enough energy left for the finish.
How do you approach fundraising for these events?
“I ran my first marathon at Exeter last year and, without a doubt, the hardest part was completing the last 10km. I had never run as far before and, as I tired, the mental games started to interfere. My pace dropped and I plodded along until about 2km remained. At which point my belief in completing returned and I picked up slightly to the end.”
Asking family, friends and colleagues for donations is a good place to start. I have also used social media to promote the campaigns to good effect, as well as doing one or two bucket collections. A few local companies have very kindly sponsored me and the general public are very supportive too.
The keys to Bob’s success include, determination, proper training, uplifting music and a good group of friends to cheer him on at the end! But what does he get out of the whole process?
progressed to half‑marathons and now to the
“A whole lot more than I expected. The desire to continue running, improved fitness, new friends, new places to visit and races to try. From the original 10km (The Great West Run, 2024), I have progressed to half‑marathons and now to the London Marathon in a relatively short time. And all with the encouragement and guidance of the DAA team. It is a completely unexpected achievement; I never imagined that I would be able to run so far.”
Is fundraising for events difficult?
difficult?
It can be, but don’t be afraid to ask two or three times! People with the intention of donating sometimes forget or get distracted and are actually pleased to be reminded. Plus, always keep in mind that you are campaigning for a critical lifesaving service and that every pound raised is important.
times! People with the intention of donating sometimes forget or actually pleased to be
Olivia Champion
Supporter Spotlight
We turn the spotlight on some of our supporters from across the county. Your inspirational fundraising efforts keep our crews responding, seven days a week, 365 days a year - demonstrating that we are all, Saving lives.Together
Paignton’s Adelphi Tearoom1 has been a steadfast supporter of our work, serving our very own Crew’s Brew coffee since 2024. They now serve up nearly 2kg of coffee a month, making Crew’s Brew a popular choice across the English Riviera. Thank you, Adelphi Tearooms, for this energising community collaboration.
The Dunn Family2 has supported Devon Air Ambulance for an incredible 25 years, after we airlifted Paul Dunn following his motorcycle crash. This marked their final festive lights display. In attendance was Founder and Life President Ann Ralli, who thanked the family for their unwavering support over the decades.
Further shout outs go to Fran and Stan Brimacombe3 for their Golden Wedding anniversary gift of £1,845; Tiverton Junior Operatic Club4 for their donation of £500 and Exmoor Horn Sheep Breeders’ Society5 for their donation of £350. Elsewhere, Buckland Brewers Young Farmers Club’s6 Lambing Bingo raised £1,000 and Torrington’s League of Friends and District Cottage Hospital7 raised an incredible £30,000(!), pictured with Ann Ralli, Mrs Ayres (Chair), Mr R Rumbold (Treasurer), Mrs D Davies (Secretary), Mrs H Rumbold and Kelly from our Fundraising team. Newton Abbot YFC8 raised a brilliant, £2,000 which was presented to us following a fantastic year of support. We also scored a hole in one when the Royal North Devon Golf Club Old Boys’ Club9 presented us with a cheque for £2,817 following more fantastic fundraising; and the Barnstaple Round Table’s10 Firework Display went off
with a bang thanks to organiser Aaron Jackson, who said, “We are so pleased to make our charity donation for fireworks to the North Devon and Torridge Stroke Association and Devon Air Ambulance.”
More club and community group generosity was rallied by Tawstock WI25, which raised £200; Marldon Bowling Club11 raised £1,500; Yarcombe Young Farmers12 raised an impressive £11,843; the English Riviera Classic Car Show13 revved up £2,000; Woolsery Show Committee14 chose us as their Charity of the Year, generating a fantastic £3,000; Churston Fatstock Show15, £300; Dartmouth Rotary Club16 at Dartmouth’s summer fete raised £1,000; for their wedding, Helen & Howard Moore17 generously opted to gift donations of £175 to us; Ray and Angela Westcott did the same for their Ruby wedding anniversary, gifting £600; Dartmouth Fatstock’s18 President donated a cheque for £300; Ivybridge Young Farmers Club19 selected us as their Charity of the Year raising a fantastic, £4,250; Violet Blackmore20 and friends hosted a cake stall for the Civic Award; St Budeaux Dance Club21, danced their way to £1,573; staff at Natwest Torquay22 undertook a branch collection, raising £94; Mary and Richard Euridge23 raised a festive £200 selling their charming handmade Christmas decorations; Helen Keenor and friends24 also embraced the festive spirit, hosting a craft fair in Crediton before Christmas, raising £1,096.
As always, YOU, our incredible supporters continue to demonstrate so many creative and thoughtful ways to raise funds for our service, for which we are incredibly grateful.
Thanks to Volunteers: Sandra & Alan Crawley, Chris & Sara Bellworthy, Simon Card, Tony Cannon and Dawne Harbord for attending these presentations.
Learn to Save a Life
Would you know what to do if someone collapsed in front of you? Could you confidently begin CPR or use a defibrillator?
Our Help with All Your Heart programme delivers free CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions in communities across Devon. In just 90 minutes, you’ll learn how to recognise a cardiac arrest, perform effective chest compressions, and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) with confidence.
Cardiac incidents account for over a third of the emergencies we attend. During a cardiac arrest, every minute without intervention reduces survival by around 10%. But when bystanders act quickly ‑ starting CPR immediately and using a defibrillator within the first 3–5 minutes - survival rates can increase dramatically, to as much as 50–70%.
As one of our clinicians explains:
“The actions taken before we arrive can make all the difference. Early CPR and defibrillation give patients the very best chance of survival.”
A recent attendee shared: “It was informative and confidence-building, I now know using a defibrillator is not something to be afraid of.” Make 2026 the year you could save a life. Visit daat.org/cardiac to find out more and book a free session.
Women in Cardiac Arrest: Breaking Down Barriers
Women are less likely to receive bystander CPR than men. Reasons range from uncertainty about anatomy to hesitation about exposing a woman’s chest in public ‑ but these barriers cost lives. To address this, we are introducing female manikins into our training to normalise practising CPR on women’s torsos. We also tackle practical concerns, including how to manage clothing, such as bras, when applying defibrillator pads. Effective pad placement requires direct skin contact, and incorrect placement can reduce the effectiveness of defibrillation.
Don’t bin your old bra...
In partnership with our retail team, we are collecting unwanted bras that might otherwise go to landfill to use in training scenariosdemonstrating, confidently and respectfully, how to remove them appropriately in an emergency. Because saving a life should never be hindered by uncertainty or embarrassment.
Could you help us reach more people?
To expand the reach of our programme, we are launching our Community Engagement Volunteer (CEV) scheme and are looking for passionate people to join us.
Community Engagement Volunteers play a vital role in helping us deliver CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions across Devon. By sharing these essential skills with local groups, workplaces, schools and community organisations, volunteers help ensure more people are prepared to act when it matters most.
You don’t need previous teaching or medical experience. What matters most is enthusiasm, reliability, and a desire to help others. To support you on your journey to become a Community Engagement Volunteer, you’ll receive training from our experienced team of specialists. We’ll provide you with all the tools, tips and techniques needed to confidently deliver CPR awareness sessions within your community.
Volunteers also benefit from:
Structured training and ongoing support from our team.
Opportunities to develop confidence in public speaking and community engagement.
Being part of a passionate network of volunteers making a real difference.
The satisfaction of empowering others with lifesaving knowledge.
Elle from our Community Engagement team explains:
“We’re incredibly excited to launch our Community Engagement Volunteers this year. They will play a key role in supporting our mission to equip Devon with the lifesaving skills needed to respond to a cardiac arrest.
This role is important because your journey to becoming a CEV also highlights just how easy it is to learn CPR. If more people realise that they can learn these skills quickly and confidently, ultimately more lives could be saved.”
When every second counts...
How one man didn’t hesitate to use CPR and helped save a stranger’s life.
Ken Warren knows just how important learning CPR is. Taking decisive action in a cardiac emergency, Ken, aged 65, helped save a man’s life. Now, with the support of our ‘Help with all your Heart’ programme, he is encouraging more people to learn lifesaving skills. Here is his story:
“I love taking part in my local 5km Park Run and most Saturday mornings, I can be found at the Plym Valley event in Plymouth’s Plymbridge Woods. On this particular day, a group of runners and I were more than halfway through the route when we found a man, lying motionless on the ground who was clearly not breathing normally. He had turned a blueish colour and, to be honest, it was a shocking thing to see. While somebody dialled 999, I began doing CPR on the man. I really didn’t know if it would help but I knew I had
to try. I kept imagining this could be my own dad, brother or son who I was trying to save, so I knew I must keep going. I was panicked and I have no idea how long I was doing CPR, but all Park Runs have defibrillators and eventually someone turned up with it. Thankfully, around that same time, Devon Air Ambulance also arrived in their Critical Care Car. I stepped back and they took over.
“I’ll be honest, I thought the gentleman had died and I was quite upset, so when, later that day, I learned he had actually survived, it was incredible.
“That experience really taught me how important it is we all learn CPR and now I want more people to learn these basic skills.
“Recently, through Devon Air Ambulance, I helped organise a Help With All Your Heart event in my
Hawley Critical Care Paramedic
“Early CPR and rapid defibrillation are critical for cardiac arrest patients, every second matters and acting quickly saves lives. Without Ken’s quick and decisive action, the outcome for this patient would undoubtedly have been worse.
Mark
local area of Glenholt in Plymouth. 85 people came to this free session, to learn CPR and to see just how simple defibrillators are to use.
“We held it in our local church, and it became a real community event which even the vicar came along to. The feedback I got from people afterwards was amazing.
“Rhiannon, one of the Paramedics from Devon Air Ambulance, took the session and she was absolutely brilliant, she made the training really easy for all of us to understand – I’d recommend everyone sign up. I have seen first hand the lifesaving difference it can make learning and then using CPR, and the difference defibrillators can make. In fact, I feel so strongly about the importance of us all having access to defibs that I now look after the one located in my community – once a month I check
its battery and make sure it’s in working order.
“I would urge everyone out there to find out where the public access defibrillators are in their local communities, in case they ever need to use them. I feel so passionately that the more people who learn CPR and know how to use a defibrillator, the better, because it is always better to do something than nothing at all.” who
“Wendy Round Attended the HWAYH session in Glenholt, Plymouth
I’ve done CPR and AED training before, but this was a great update and boosted my confidence. It was also good to be reminded of what public defibrillators we have in our area and where they are located, should we ever need to use one of them.
Ken Warren
Make an event of this summer Volunteering
Flexible event volunteering is a wonderful way to explore Devon and meet new people.
Summer is our busiest and most visible time of year. Our support teams and crew members are out at fetes, county and agricultural shows, and local community events, as well as supporting our own fundraising activities across the county.
These events are an important way to connect with supporters, share what we do, and celebrate the vital role we play in our communities. But none of this would happen without volunteers who are willing to give their time and energy to keep our presence strong during the summer months.
Event volunteers are central to this work. They represent DAA, talk with supporters, share stories about our work and help bring it to life through everyday conversations. With longer days and busier event calendars, summer offers more volunteering opportunities than any other time of year.
Volunteering
that suits you
We know summer is a busy season for many people, which is why we offer flexible volunteering options.
Whether you’re able to help regularly or every now and then, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in events throughout the summer, welcoming volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
To support this, we’ve developed our Base Crew Flex scheme. Volunteer engagement officer Charlotte Fleetwood says: “Volunteers that are flexible operate as part of our ‘Base Crew’. They very generously drop in to support our events, as and when it suits them, and there is no expectation for them to commit to long‑term support. We welcome them to support the activities they will most enjoy or relate to.”
Volunteering at events is a great way to boost confidence by meeting like-minded people, gaining CV‑friendly experience, or simply providing an opportunity to get out and about in Devon (Please note: sunny weather isn’t always guaranteed!) while supporting the communities we serve.
Voices
Volunteer, Sue, shared her feelings about being a flexible volunteer:
I’m looking forward to coming along to local events as I enjoy meeting and chatting with people and helping out, while I can support admin activities with my organisational skills, and generally being useful where I can.”
“Our Base Crew Flex option is ideal for people who want to make a difference without committing to a regular rota.
“Having been a supporter of Devon Air Ambulance for over 10 years through the charity lottery, I was always interested in reading the Helipad magazine, especially the articles relating to the volunteering side. I have been volunteering with another local charity for the last four years but unfortunately that is no longer available, so I was looking for the next opportunity. The obvious choice for me was to contact Devon Air Ambulance. I was very pleased to learn about the Base Crew Flex option. I didn’t want to commit to certain days or hours, so this will allow me to choose from among several areas of interest, like local events, admin support, and so on. This fits in really well with the vision I had of helping because it allows me to choose how to help, as and when I have free time.
Our Base Crew Flex Option is ideal for people who want to make a difference without committing to a regular rota ‑ get involved at a summer event that suits you, or pick from any number of great shows, challenges or local box collections in your area. We all know that finding balance in life is incredibly important and we want these volunteer opportunities to suit you, your lifestyle, and any of your other commitments, including work, family, or that dream summer holiday that’s just around the corner.
Every hour you lend us has a real impact...
Why not sign up today and try something new this summer!
Upcoming events:
Exeter Inflatable 5k. Devon Air Ambulance Cycle Challenge. The Daring Descent. Support at one of our summer show stalls.
To find out more about flexible volunteering at a forthcoming event visit or scan the code: daat.org/flex
Exmouth Celebrating A vibrant coastal community
Great reasons to visit the new home of our Exmouth charity shop.
Exmouth is one of Devon’s most beloved seaside towns. This year, we’re especially excited to celebrate the East Devon town as our Exmouth charity shop settles into its new home at 5 Parade, replacing our former location on Chapel Street. The move has given our shop a larger, brighter, more modern space, and allows us to offer an even greater range of high‑quality pre‑loved treasures to our shoppers.
Exmouth isn’t just a beautiful place to spend the day, it’s also a real draw for charity‑shop lovers beyond Devon, attracting bargain hunters and treasure seekers from as far afield as Wales!
Naturally, holidaymakers also come to Exmouth to enjoy the town’s two miles of sandy beach, making it an ideal spot for walking, picnicking, boat trips, and water sports. Not forgetting the Exmouth Marina with its charming independent seaside eateries. Of course, this stretch of Devon seaside is best known
for giving visitors access to scenic estuary walks and cycle routes along the River Exe, as well as being the gateway to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We feel very fortunate to have a shop in the heart of such an attractive town.
Visit with donations, or discover something new
Every item donated to our Exmouth charity shop, and every purchase made, helps to support our lifesaving mission. As Ann Ralli, our Founder and Life President, said at the Exmouth shop’s reopening:
“Our charity shops are an important link to our communities, offering a place to recycle, shop sustainably, learn skills, volunteer, and support a service that helps people across Devon every day.” When you shop or drop off donations, be sure to say hello to our wonderful staff and friendly volunteers, who pour so much care into making the shop a warm and welcoming place to be.
Volunteering: A rewarding way to give back
The newly relocated shop now holds more stock than ever, including:
Quality pre-loved clothing and accessories. Toys, books, and games.
Bric-a-brac for every taste.
Devon Air Ambulance-branded merchandise. A dedicated space for reduced price outlet stock.
With the expanded floorspace and refreshed design, visitors can enjoy a more inviting browsing experience, perfect for discovering some fantastic finds. Volunteer, Lysianne Cherry says:
“I have been a volunteer now at the Exmouth Shop coming up to nine years and I do two days a week. I mainly volunteer on the shop floor, so I see the impact of the new shop with customers.
“I have seen quite a few changes over the years, so I was feeling anxious about the move to the new shop. I needn’t have worried, as it is so much better. This is now my happy place to volunteer.
“The customers love the shop and they love the bric‑a‑brac. It’s lovely to see regular customers returning and I’m glad to be part of a great team.”
Lysianne Cherry
Top 5 Exmouth
Attractions
according to our Exmouth team:
5. Two miles of golden sandy beach with rugged cliff-top coast at one end.
4. Some of the most beautiful scenery for walkers along the East Devon stretch of the South West Coast Path.
3. A bustling town centre with plenty of cafés and eateries.
2. Family-friendly seaside attractions and ice cream shops along the promenade
1. The new Exmouth Devon Air Ambulance charity shop – well worth a visit!
Visit our Exmouth charity shop in its new location, we’d love to see you soon!
Cutting the ribbon at our new Exmouth shop
out&about
This view from the crew shows just how far and wide our work takes us during the spring and summer months. We’re ready to respond, wherever you need us.
Over Newton Abbot with an amazing view of blanketed low cloud
Andy says: “Sun is up so suncream is on! Thanks, Alex, for the extra-large handful”
GDAAN exploring all that Ilfracombe has to offer
One of the many reasons we love calling Devon “home”
Upon reflection, this was another beautiful day in Devon
Packed lunches look a little different around here
Changing outcomes after a collision
IMPACT is driving change through evidence and collaboration.
For the size of its population, Devon has one of the highest rates of road injury in England. Last year alone, Devon Air Ambulance attended 266 road traffic collisions.
What’s less well known is that trauma from road collisions is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. This is where IMPACT comes in – our post‑collision research unit, founded by Devon Air Ambulance to help reduce deaths and serious injury from road collisions both here in Devon and far beyond it.
When a road traffic collision occurs, our role as an air ambulance charity is clear ‑ get our expert clinicians to the scene as fast as possible to deliver lifesaving care.
But IMPACT also asks the question ‘how can survival be improved and harm reduced, after the crash has happened?’
IMPACT focuses on improving these outcomes through research, innovation and turning evidence into real world change. The centre is entirely grant funded, meaning public donations continue to support our frontline operations.
A vital part of this work is identifying the most important unanswered research questions.
Recently the team led the UK’s first Priority Setting Partnership (PSP) dedicated specifically to postcollision care.
A PSP brings together people with lived experience ‑ including patients, bystanders, clinicians, emergency services and researchers, to agree where research can make the biggest difference.
IMPACT’S workshop included road injury survivors, bystanders who had witnessed collisions, healthcare professionals and emergency responders. Together, they identified the ten most important research priorities for improving care after road traffic collisions.
These priorities included questions like ‘how can life‑threatening injuries like internal bleeding or brain injury be spotted at the roadside?’, ‘Which urgent treatments are most effective for people trapped after a collision?’, and ‘How can non-medical responders provide safe, early help?’.
By focusing research on what matters most to patients, the public and professionals, IMPACT aims to speed up progress and strengthen collaboration across emergency services, healthcare and road safety sectors. This work places the unit at the heart of
A key framework supporting this work is the Road Injury Chain of Survival, developed through IMPACT-led research.
The chain describes the vital sequence of actions needed to improve outcomes after a collision; from early recognition of the incident, through rescue and initial care, to rapid transport and specialist hospital treatment. Understanding where these links can be strengthened, is essential, if we are to reduce deaths and serious injuries caused by road trauma.
a growing national and international effort to improve post‑collision care.
Among those attending IMPACT’s PSP was Devon Air Ambulance’s Founder and Life President, Ann Ralli.
Ann founded the charity in 1986 following the death of her son Ceri, who was fatally injured while cycling. She still remembers the moments after his collision.
“I was there with two others, as a bystander. We didn’t know what to do. I was frozen with fear –terrified of making things worse. I didn’t even go close to comfort him. That feeling of helplessness has never left me.”
For Ann, IMPACT’s work is about ensuring others are better prepared.
“This is the beginning of something transformative, she says. “By focusing research on the right questions, we can develop evidence‑based strategies to educate and empower bystanders, improve emergency responses, and prevent needless loss of life.”
The priorities identified through the PSP will now shape future research and partnerships. By
strengthening every link in the Road Injury Chain of Survival, IMPACT aims to help more people survive road injury, and recover after a collision.
To see the full list of the Road Injury PSP research questions, please visit: bit.ly/IMPACTpsp
IMPACT’s groundbreaking work has been recognised nationally, winning two prestigious awards.
2025 Innovation of the Year Award
Challenge
The Postbridge
Beginning the year with a spring in our step!
Local charities joined forces in March to raise over £13,500.
Postbridge came alive with community spirit when 181 determined hikers set out across Dartmoor for the Postbridge Challenge. This fundraising event was delivered in a partnership with Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (DSRT), Plymouth.
With 4‑mile and 10‑mile routes to choose from, participants of all ages and abilities hiked across one of Dartmoor’s most beautiful landscapes, while raising funds for two charities that play an
essential role in keeping people safe across Devon –especially in rural areas.
Alongside the dedicated DSRT volunteers, our crews regularly work side by side on lifesaving missions. Each organisation brings vital skills: DSRT’s local knowledge and navigation expertise and our pilots’, paramedics’ and doctors’ rapid response and clinical care. That shared history of teamwork made the Postbridge Challenge a natural collaboration, and made this inaugural event something special.
Walkers took on the challenge for many reasons; to remember loved ones, to celebrate lives saved, or simply to support two charities they know and may one day depend on. Whatever their motivation, everyone set off with the same aim – to complete the walk safely while helping two essential services continue their work.
keep an eye out for more news and information over the coming months...
Collaboration at the core of this event
The event was made possible through the support of fellow local charities; Rapid Relief Team who provided free catering, and Devon and Cornwall 4x4 Response, who supplied a safety vehicle.
We’re also grateful to generous local sponsors Postbridge Stores, Two Bridges Hotel, Scruples Jewellers and Yelverton Foot Clinic.
Each route took walkers through some of Dartmoor’s most beautiful landscapes ‑ sweeping open moorland, ancient tors and rugged tracks; all familiar to both charities through their operational work. The 10‑mile challenge offered a tougher test of endurance, while the 4‑mile route ensured the event remained inclusive for families and less experienced walkers. All 181 hikers made it back safe and sound with a glow in their cheeks from the exertion!
The popularity of this new event means the Postbridge Challenge is on its way to becoming a favourite activity for our outdoors enthusiasts. For those who missed out, or those eager to return next spring, plans are already taking shape with hopes of making the challenge even bigger and better, so
And after cleaning muddy boots and resting weary feet, our walkers can carry a sense of pride in knowing they helped raise over £13,500 to be shared between our lifesaving services. Thank you to everyone who took part and we’ll see you again next year.
Huge thanks
to our event sponsors for their support in bringing this event to life:
Two Bridges Hotel
In the heart of Dartmoor Scruples Jewellers Yelverton
Postbridge Stores
“Our
Leave a legacy for Devon
From routine repair
to life-threatening fall
Following a dangerous fall from a roof, Devon farmer, Alan warns, “it’s not worth taking the risk”.
Two years ago, farmer Alan Down began a job he thought would take only a few minutes. Little did he know that this ‘quick task’ would leave him badly injured and facing a long recovery.
In 2024, Alan, who was sixty‑two at the time, had been repairing a barn roof at his farm near Crediton. “I had done the repair and was coming back across the roof when I fell through the sky light, landing 25 feet below onto the concrete floor.”
Alan’s wife, Maggie, rushed home from work after learning about the accident and called 999. She says, “Within 20 minutes Devon Air Ambulance arrived, along with roadside paramedics and the police. It was a frightening time, but everyone was very kind and supportive, not just to Alan but to me too, making sure I was okay.”
The incident was attended by Devon Air Ambulance clinician Darren Goodwin, acting in his capacity as a Volunteer Responder. This role is part of a scheme in which trained clinicians volunteer their own time while off duty to respond to nearby incidents and provide early specialist care.
Alan spent 15 days in hospital; he had multiple spinal fractures, a fractured pelvis, and 16 fractured ribs,
and he took more than three months to recover. Alan says he’s now at around 95% of the fitness he had before his accident and feels incredibly lucky not to have been more badly injured.
Since his accident, his family has fundraised for Devon Air Ambulance as their way of thanking the charity. Alan’s three sons raised £1,350, taking part in the Plymouth Half Marathon, and at a family party they raised £400.
Reflecting on his accident, Alan says, “I’m extremely grateful for my lucky escape and the professional care shown by Devon Air Ambulance and Derriford Hospital. I want to thank Devon Air Ambulance for what they did, but I also want my story to be a reminder to everyone, whatever trade you work in, that it’s not worth taking the risk of getting on a roof without professional kit. I’ve had friends tell me they now think twice about roofing repairs, remembering what happened to me.”
Alan’s sons after running the Plymouth Half Marathon
Goodbye to our and thanks to everyone who participated CROSSWORD
We would like to say a big thank you to Ali Simpson for her generous gift of writing the Helipad crossword in recent years. In addition to serving as the magazine’s Editor, Ali continued writing the crossword after retiring from the role, with her gift providing many hours of entertainment to Helipad readers.
We’re also grateful to the many business partners who have donated prizes over the years and, of course, to the readers who took part.
Our goal with Helipad is to celebrate the work of our crew and the incredible communities that make our work possible, so we’re looking forward to bringing you more insightful, informative and inspiring stories in future issues.
Last edition’s winner
Congratulations to Wendy from South Molton whose winning entry for our Autumn‑Winter 2025 crossword means she will receive a family return ticket for two adults and two children from Exeter Cruises for a wonderful day out sightseeing.
