Two big events, one lifesaving cause – Volunteer with your local Air Ambulance this September

This September, Northern Ireland is coming together for two amazing events – and Air Ambulance NI need YOU to help make them unforgettable! 

Whether you're a high-energy cheerer, a hydration hero, or just someone who loves to give back, this is your moment to shine – all in support of the Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, a vital service that saves lives every day across our region. 

Tesco "Wear Red" Day – Volunteers in Stores Across NI - Pull on something red and bring the energy to your local Tesco store on Saturday, September 13! We’re looking for volunteers to help raise funds and awareness for Air Ambulance NI in stores. Fun, friendly faces wanted – no experience needed! 

Moy Park Belfast City Half Marathon – "VolunCHEERS" Needed! - On Sunday, September 21, join our amazing team of “VolunCHEERS” and help energise the runners at cheer and water stations throughout the city! You’ll be part of the action, boost community spirit, and support a lifesaving cause – one high-five at a time. 

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising for the charity said: “Volunteering is a great way to be part of these incredible events, for existing and new supporters of the service, all while supporting Air Ambulance NI and the life-saving work we do in the community.   

"We are truly grateful that Tesco can support us once again this year. It takes £8,200 in fundraising to keep the air ambulance service operating each day and the Tesco ‘Wear Red’ one day collection hugely contributes to this, with stores going above and beyond in their support. 

"Half Marathon Day is one of our favourite events! The streets are lined with spectators celebrating the amazing achievements of all the participants and the city is buzzing! We provide all cheer materials, branding and refreshments for the day, to ensure our volunteers have a great experience.   

"If you have some free time on Saturday 13th or Sunday 21st September and you would like to join us at one of our events, please contact the office on 028 9762 2677 or complete the form on our website airambulanceni.org/volunteer and our team will be in touch.’ 

Air Ambulance NI is a local charity that works in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to provide the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS). This service brings emergency medical interventions direct to seriously ill or injured people with the aim of saving lives, brains and limbs.   

When life hangs in the balance, every second counts and the air ambulance can reach anywhere in Northern Ireland in twenty-five minutes. The crew is made up of a doctor, paramedic and pilot and on average they are called out twice per day. The service operates seven days a week for twelve hours per day.   

On scene, the team deliver specialist interventions to patients that can mean the difference between life and death. These interventions can include advanced pain relief, a pre-hospital blood transfusion and a pre-hospital anaesthetic.

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Any patients or families of the HEMS are welcome to visit the airbase and should get in touch with Air Ambulance NI by calling 028 9262 2677.  

As a local charity, Air Ambulance NI aspires to raise £3 million each year to maintain and sustain this service so public donations are crucial. One of the simplest ways to support is by becoming a member of Club AANI and donating via a monthly or annual subscription. Find out more by visiting www.airambulanceni.org alternatively you can contact the charity directly by emailing info@airambulanceni.org or calling 028 9262 2677.