Southern Vectis is throwing its support behind Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance – by naming the charity as its official good cause for 2026 and 2027.
The local bus operator will spend the next 2 years raising funds and awareness to help the charity keep its life-saving service operational.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance delivers critical care to people in their moment of greatest need. Its specialist doctors and paramedics respond to emergencies across the Island and mainland, providing hospital-level treatment at the scene.
From road traffic collisions to cardiac arrests, every mission is powered entirely by donations – with no government or NHS funding.
Keith Wilson, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance director of income and engagement, said:
“Every year crew respond to thousands of people having the worst day of their lives. Whether they’ve been involved in a road traffic collision, suffered a cardiac arrest or had a serious medical episode, our dedicated team doctors, dispatchers, pilots and paramedics are there to give each and every patient the very best chance of survival and recovery.
“In 2025 we responded to a record number of emergencies for the fourth consecutive year – with our helicopters currently reaching anywhere on the Island within 20 minutes from take-off.
“Through our major capital project – Operation Airbase – we aim to halve this time, ensuring faster care and a greater chance of survival.
Article continues below this advertisement “By choosing us as its charity partner, Southern Vectis will play a vital role in helping us reach the finish line in what will be the most transformative step in our charity’s history. We have £1.1 million left to raise to help convert and equip our new purpose-designed airbase – a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform how we deliver life-saving care across the Island.
“Our partnership isn’t just about raising money. It’s about saving lives and empowering the community Southern Vectis serves every day.“
Richard Tyldsley, Southern Vectis general manager, added:
“This is a vital part of our local community, and the charity relies on donations from those living and working here.
“Our corporate charity is voted for by the Southern Vectis team. Some of my colleagues have benefited or will benefit directly from the support the air ambulance provides, so we are delighted to be backing this very worthy cause, and raising as much money as possible over the coming years.
“Hopefully, the messages will be seen by thousands travelling across the island – and this will help increase awareness for this very worthy cause.”
Southern Vectis has a busy two years ahead and is also promoting the charity on-board and on the rear of one of its buses.
For more information about Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, visit hiowaa.org
Well done Southern Vectis, great cause.
As at least 3 of the management are walking heart attacts this is well overdue