The Worshipful Company of Launderers, together with other Livery Companies, is a long-standing supporter of the London Air Ambulance and as such, representatives of each supporting Livery Company, is invited annually to view its activities at its London-based helipad. This year the invitation was for the 3rd May and Deputy Master, Ken Cupitt, was this year’s Company’s representative.
On average, the Air Ambulance is called out five times per day 365 days per year and the average flight time is six minutes to reach its destination. Each trip has two pilots, a senior doctor plus two others; there are two shifts each of twelve hours, however, there are no night flights at present.
One Air Ambulance helicopter is always available, the second is at nearby RAF Northolt being inspected and serviced and the standards servicing are as strict as for any civilian long haul airliner.
The London Air Ambulance is seeking £15 million for two replacement Helicopters which will have the functionality to fly at night; £5 million of this fund has already been raised thanks to generous donations from runners in the recent London Marathon. 96% of the funding for the London Air Ambulance is from private donations with only 4% from the NHS. The Worshipful Company of Launderers’ Benevolent Fund is proud to be a financial contributor for over ten years.
Britain leads the World with an Air Ambulance Service second-to-none with other countries sending their representatives, including medical teams, to learn from the skills acquired by these skilled and dedicated people. It was a privilege to have the opportunity to spend time with those who serve the people of London doing so much to save lives and who are so appreciative of the Liverymen’s donations enabling the support of The Worshipful Company of Launderers.
