Devon Air Ambulance launches summer appeal as demand rises

Devon Air Ambulance has launched its Heart of Devon Summer Appeal 2025, calling on locals and visitors to support its lifesaving missions during the busiest time of the year.

As the warmer months draw people to the region’s coastlines, moors and countryside, the demand for urgent medical assistance significantly increases. The charity, which receives no government funding, is appealing for public support to help fund its air and road crews who respond to emergencies in some of the county’s most remote locations.

“Summer is our busiest season,” said Courtney Buchanan, Individual Giving Manager at Devon Air Ambulance. “The people of Devon are at the heart of everything we do. Every single donation enables us to reach our patients swiftly in order to provide the critical care they need when every second really does count.”

Last year, the charity responded to more than 1,500 incidents during the summer period alone.

Among those helped was 4-year-old Zalan, who was kicked in the face by a horse while enjoying a day out with his family at Haytor Rocks on Dartmoor.

“Last year I was part of the crew who were called to help 4-year-old Zalan,” said Alex, an Advanced Prehospital Paramedic at Devon Air Ambulance. “A sudden, serious illness or injury like Zalan’s can happen to anyone at any time, and thankfully, we were ready to respond thanks to kind donations from our generous supporters.”

Devon Air Ambulance operates two aircraft and a fleet of Critical Care Cars, all staffed by a specialist team of pilots, paramedics and doctors. The charity said donations will help it to respond swiftly to emergencies, keep helicopters and vehicles fully equipped, maintain full crew cover across all shifts, and support their highly trained medical staff.

To donate, visit www.daat.org/heart-of-devon-summer-appeal-2025.