KSS needs to raise £535,000 to continue to provide medical care across the Kent, Surrey and Sussex regions. The charity is also working alongside the NHS and South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust to transfer Covid-19 patients between hospitals in local regions.

The Coronavirus Emergency Appeal has been triggered by a shortfall of its core funding due to the cancellation of fundraising events and the increased costs of operating safe service during the pandemic. KSS had to invest in specialist equipment and protective wear to ensure staff safety.

David Welch, CEO of KSS, said: “This is the most important appeal KSS has ever launched. Never in our 30-year history have we had to call on public support with this urgency. We are steadfast in our commitment to continuing our primary service at this time and are also fully committed to working on the frontline of the Coronavirus pandemic when called to do so, while ensuring the safety of our patients and our crew. However, we need help from our inspirational and generous supporters in order to deliver these services.

“I thank you on behalf of each and every patient we treat and care for. Together we can save the lives of those who need us now more than ever.”