ESSEX & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has announced its shortlisting in six categories at the upcoming Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence, hosted by Air Ambulances UK (AAUK).
This recognition highlights the dedication, innovation, and impact that EHAAT has made in providing life-saving pre-hospital emergency care across Essex, Hertfordshire, and surrounding areas.
The annual awards celebrate the achievements of air ambulance charities, crew, staff, and volunteers who go the extra mile to support their communities.
A Year of Outstanding Achievement Across EHAAT
EHAAT’s shortlisting spans multiple key areas of the charity, reflecting both individual and team excellence.
- Charity Staff Member of the Year:
Brenda Playford, Governance Manager, is recognised for her unwavering commitment to governance excellence, ensuring the highest standards across the organisation.
- Operations Support Staff of the Year:
Paul Thompson, Workplace Assistant, is celebrated for his integral role in keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly and supporting mission readiness.
- Trustee of the Year:
Anni Ridsdill Smith has earned a nomination for her strategic contributions, providing essential guidance that has supported the charity’s growth and sustainability.
Exceptional Teamwork & Fundraising Innovation
EHAAT’s retail team is shortlisted for Charity Team of the Year. Under the leadership of Leila Clarke, Associate Retail Commercial Director, the team has achieved unprecedented growth in revenue through a combination of in-store, e-commerce, and community support efforts.
Leila commented:
“The progress we’ve made is thanks to the dedication of every area manager, shop assistant, volunteer, and donor. This nomination is a testament to their passion and hard work, all of which help sustain our life-saving operations.”
Steve Dukes, nominated for Supporter of the Year, has raised significant funds in memory of his father, who EHAAT attended to in 2020. Through sports memorabilia auctions and celebrity football matches, Steve’s efforts have made an extraordinary impact.
Innovation of the Year: Sharing for Success
A testament to EHAAT’s collaborative spirit, the charity has been jointly nominated with Magpas Air Ambulance and East Anglian Air Ambulance for Innovation of the Year. Their joint fundraising conference, ‘Sharing for Success,’ brings together fundraising leaders to exchange best practices, driving collective success across the region.
Simmy Akhtar, CEO of Air Ambulances UK, shared her congratulations:
“The calibre of talent across the air ambulance sector is inspiring. We are grateful to all who submitted nominations, shining a light on the remarkable contributions of individuals and teams. We look forward to celebrating these achievements at the Awards of Excellence.”
Looking Ahead to the Awards Ceremony
The awards ceremony takes place on 28 November 2024 at the Coventry Building Society Arena and promises to be a highlight for the sector, celebrating excellence, innovation, and dedication across the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities. EHAAT’s multiple nominations reflect the collective efforts of its staff, volunteers, and supporters who tirelessly work to provide essential emergency care services.
For more information on EHAAT’s work or to support the charity, please visit: www.ehaat.org.
