Lottery helps fund over 300 air ambulance missions

The country's lifesaving charity-funded service has been supported by a total of £750,000 thanks to players in recent years. And, with an average mission costing £2,500, players of the popular lottery have helped save and improve hundreds of lives throughout Scotland. People's Postcode Lottery's latest recent award of £200,000 to SCAA was delivered during lockdown as the charity faced reduced income from events and fundraising activities.

David Craig, SCAA's Chief Executive, said the support of People's Postcode Lottery and its players had proved ‘a lifeline’ - not just to those seriously ill or injured, but to the charity itself.

Recognizing the SCAA’s vital work

"SCAA relies entirely on public donations," he said, "and it is support like this that has kept us flying and saving lives throughout these challenging times. We're so grateful that players of People's Postcode Lottery recognize the vital work SCAA does throughout the whole of Scotland and have repeatedly supported our service."

SCAA operates two fast response EC 135 helicopter air ambulances, based at Perth and Aberdeen, available for tasking through the 999 service to emergencies in every corner of the country, 12 hours a day, 365 days a year. The support of players of the People's Postcode Lottery has helped sustain the original service and launch the second aircraft at the start of the pandemic.

A good cause players are passionate about

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, added: “The service that SCAA provides is crucial to people all over Scotland, and I know that for many of our players, it’s a good cause they are passionate about supporting. I’m thrilled that player funding will support more lifesaving missions this year thanks to the hard work and dedication of the helicopter crews and paramedics.”