Local MP Maggie Throup has welcomed the announcement of £4,992,000 to improve ambulance services across the East Midlands.
The funding is part of £36.3 million of sustainability and transformation partnership (STP) funding announced by the Health Minister Stephen Barclay.
The investment will mean hundreds of new and updated ambulances will be providing emergency care to patients by this winter. Part of the long-term plan for the NHS, the capital investment will increase support for hardworking and dedicated paramedics and ambulance staff.
The changes build on the recent announcement that paramedics will be given body cameras to increase protection from violence and bring attackers to justice, in a trial involving 465 ambulances and paramedic teams.
The investment will buy 256 new state-of-the-art vehicles, as well as ‘make ready hubs’ at ambulance trust headquarters which will allow better restocking and maintenance of vehicles. It will also mean that many more ‘double-crewed ambulances’ are on the roads
In the East Midlands, £4,992,000 of the new funding will be spent on 37 new ambulance vehicles to support the delivery of performance standards and enhance paramedic education.
Commenting, Maggie said:
“I am delighted that the East Midlands is one of six ambulance trusts receiving a share of £36.3 million to improve ambulance services for patients across the region.
“This new funding will help improve performance times and meet targets, while also driving efficiency. Changes are due to be in place in time for this winter.
“Delivering 37 new ambulances will ensure we are supporting our dedicated ambulance staff with state of the art equipment, as part of our long-term plan for the health service.”