AN AIR ambulance has appealed to the public to become volunteers and contribute towards its life-saving work.

Wales Air Ambulance (WAS) relies on volunteers to carry out fundraising activities so that it can continue its vital role of providing on-scene assistance to seriously injured patients, which costs £8million per year – but is free to all those who depend upon it.

The call has been made as part of National Volunteers’ Week from June 1-7, which celebrates and raises awareness of the work of people who give their free time to worthy causes.

Michelle Morris, WAS HR and Volunteering, said: “Volunteers’ Week provides us all with the opportunity to take some time to reflect on the outstanding help and support that our volunteers provide to us, whether they help us in our shops, warehouse, attend community-based events or support our administration functions, the gift of their time is duly recognised, and it is always appreciated.

“We need volunteers now more than ever, and are asking the public to help support our lifesaving service, whether that’s for one hour a week or one hour a month. Any time given to the charity is much appreciated and essential to help keep our four helicopters in the air.”

“Like many other organisations, the COVID-19 pandemic presented several challenges to us, we had to suspend our community events, close our retail, warehouse, and café operations, all of which were fantastically supported by our volunteers. I thank all our volunteers’ for their understanding and patience during this difficult time and we look forward to welcoming new and present volunteers back over the course of the next few months.

“The dedication, contribution, and commitment that our volunteers show is overwhelming, and it is something that we will always be grateful for; we could not continue with our life saving work without them.”

Several thousand people have volunteered for Wales Air Ambulance, at various points, over the past 20 years. Together with the Charity’s committed staff, they have helped raise the £8 million needed each year to keep the ‘flying medics’ in the air 24/7.

The charity, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in March, is extremely grateful to all its volunteers who give up their time, whether that is 1 hour a week or 20 hours.

There are numerous roles undertaken by volunteers. This includes support within shops and warehouses, at community and fundraising events and with the Charity’s transport teams.

To volunteer for the Wales Air Ambulance you must be aged 18 or over.

If you are a student or unemployed, volunteering can be a great way to gain experience, learn new skills and give future employers a valuable insight into your personality.

Bosses value volunteers as outgoing, forward-thinking team players who have a selfless attitude towards helping the community.

Wales Air Ambulance could also provide a valuable reference to your prospective employer – and the charity has even been known to take on its own volunteers as staff.

If you are retired, volunteering can be a way to expand your friends network. You might be able to utilise skills learned in your career or take on new tasks and challenges.

If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities with the Wales Air Ambulance, email volunteer co-ordinator Sandra Hembery for an application form via sandrahembery@walesairambulance.com or download an application form at www.walesairambulance.com/volunteerapplication-form