Lia’s Wings is landing in London

Lia’s Wings has seen demand for its paediatric air ambulance services take off and it has added a new base at London Biggin Hill Airport.

The charity utilises selected private road and air ambulances or organises medical escorts on commercial flights, carefully planning each journey to find the safest, most suitable solution for every baby or child, ensuring that they receive the personalised care in the hospital they need.

CEO Charlotte Young says: “This collaboration with Biggin Hill marks a huge step in our charity’s development. Since the pandemic Lia’s Wings has been managed by a small, passionate team, working from their home offices around the UK. However, demand for our service has boomed and in just over two years the charity has doubled the number of children it is supporting, taking on more complex cases, travelling greater distances and we are making a massive impact.

“As the UK’s only fixed wing ambulance charity, this move gives us the opportunity to engage and collaborate with experts within the aviation sector, shining a light on our unique service. The expertise within the aviation industry enables us to deliver life-changing outcomes for the families that need us. We are proud to establish a home where we will be surrounded by those who can help us facilitate better outcomes for children. We hope everyone welcomes us in our new home and we look forward to building new partnerships – our door is always open.”

The charity, which also flies from Bristol Airport and Teesside, is now offering an international service. When a child needs an urgent air ambulance while overseas, Lia’s Wings can provide a medical transfer back to the UK and help integrate patients back into NHS care. The charity can also fly children for specialist treatment overseas when it is approved by the NHS, but not offered in the UK, ensuring that every British baby and child can access vital medical treatment and care, no matter where they are. In addition, Lia’s Wings provides a tailored support service for families to help them through crises, creating improved outcomes and lasting change.