The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Landowners link up with charity air ambulance
SL&E to give extra support to SCAA’s life-saving work
Landowners across Scotland have announced details of a partnership with the country’s only air ambulance charity.
Scottish Land and Estates (SL&E) is offering extra support to the Perthbased SCAA as it prepares to enter its third year of vital life-saving work.
The air ambulance has been scrambled to nearly 600 call-outs since the charity began in 2013. A large number of these have been to remote, rural areas where road ambulances may be restricted by distance or terrain.
The sterling work has prompted SL&E to team-up with the charity and offer support through a number of channels, including an initiative to recognise all safe landing zones throughout Scotland.
The organisation will also help SCAA with various marketing drives.
Chief executive Douglas McAdam said: “Anyone who lives or works in rural Scotland or visits rural areas benefits from the security of knowing SCAA is there – even if they have not used it.
“This vital frontline service is key to our members’ businesses with regards the health and safety of staff and guests in isolated rural locations, as well as being vital to their families and the local community.
“The helicopter, which relies on all of us for funding, has proven that it can save lives by reducing attendance times, particularly where the geography and topography of the land is a factor.
“The first hour in such cases is critical to saving lives,” added Mr McAdam.
“SCAA has been there for landowners and users for the past two years and we owe them a great debt of gratitude. We all benefit from what they do.
“Now it is time for us to be there for them and ensure this vital service stays in the air.”
SCAA chairman John Bullough said that SL&E could prove to be a vital ally in helping to raise funds and the charity’s profile.
“The presence of SCAA increases the country’s helicopter air ambulance capacity by 50% which is good news for rural landowners, users and workers everywhere,” he said.
SCAA will also benefit from the launch of SL& E’s three new membership categories: Supporters, equestrian and student. A £10 donation from each membership subscription will be passed to SCAA.