Devon Air Ambulance is calling on communities across Devon to help secure the future of the charity’s lifesaving service after reporting a £1.1 million deficit in its latest Annual Report.
Devon Air Ambulance is a charity, which receives no direct Government funding for our day-to-day operations. We responded to more than 2,100 emergencies last year and continue to provide critical care to patients across Devon and beyond. However, rising operating costs coupled with reduced legacy income have resulted in expenditure exceeding income.
Our latest Annual Report acknowledges that we are currently spending more than we receive and we forecast a further deficit in 2026, prompting a series of measures designed to improve long-term financial sustainability.
These include increased efficiency improvements, cost-saving initiatives and a review of our organisational structure. Whilst these latest measures are set to achieve an annual saving of around £400,000, this will still not be enough to cover the predicted shortfall.
It’s the second time in recent years we have recorded a budget deficit – previously in 2023 there existed a gap of just over £2m, but due to high levels of legacy income a surplus was generated in 2024 before returning to a deficit in 2025.
Dave Hawes, DAA Director of Corporate Services & Accountable manager, said:
“Our latest Annual Report tells two stories. The first is one of extraordinary impact. Last year our crews attended more than 2,100 emergencies, providing critical care to people at the worst moments of their lives.
“The second is a financial reality facing not just Devon Air Ambulance, but many charities across the country.
The cost of delivering our service continues to rise, while income is becoming increasingly challenging and unpredictable.
Dave Hawes, Director of Corporate Services & Accountable Manager
“We are taking action. We are carefully reviewing our costs, improving efficiency and strengthening our fundraising activity. But the simple truth is that Devon Air Ambulance exists because local people choose to support it.
“Every mission we fly is funded by our supporters. There is no us without you.”
We remain focused on delivering our existing frontline service, with funds in place that allow time to implement our recovery plans. However, continued public support will be essential to protect the service for future generations.
We are launching our Keep Us Flying campaign, which will shine a light on the increasing cost of providing critical care across one of the UK’s largest and most challenging operating regions.
The campaign will ask supporters to help safeguard a service that reaches hundreds of people every month and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Dave Hawes added: “We are determined to protect frontline patient care. We have a clear plan and we are taking responsible action. But we cannot do this alone.
The people of Devon have built this service over more than three decades. With their support, we can ensure it remains there for the people who will need us tomorrow, next month and for many years to come.
Dave Hawes, Director of Corporate Services & Accountable Manager