The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) is a vital charity-run emergency service dedicated to delivering life‑saving, pre‑hospital critical care across Dorset and Somerset.
Since its launch in March 2000, DSAA has grown into a highly skilled and crucial medical resource for the region.
“For Verwood residents, The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance means rapid-response airborne intensive care, backed by expert medical teams, a land-based backup fleet, and extensive community liaison. When seconds count, DSAA is often the difference between life and critical outcomes help make that possible. I am pleased and proud to make this my charity of the year and look forward to raising much needed funds for this worthwhile cause.” Roger Sweet Verwood Rotary President
Operating from Henstridge Airfield in Somerset, the charity uses an AgustaWestland AW169 helicopter (callsign Helimed 10) capable of reaching almost anywhere in its service area—including Verwood—within 20 minutes of a 999 dispatch. That’s followed by immediate on-scene care from a dedicated team consisting of a critical care doctor, a specialist practitioner, and two pilots—bringing hospital‑level interventions directly to the patient
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DSAA also runs enhanced care outreach vehicles, usually Skoda Kodiaqs, equipped with essential emergency kits: oxygen, defibrillators, trauma packs, blood products, and more. These reach patients when helicopters may be grounded—such as overnight, in bad weather, or when the aircraft is undergoing maintenance. This flexibility helps ensure Verwood benefits from high-level emergency response even when flying isn’t an option
For Verwoodthis means access to rapid, rural emergency care, especially important for road traffic incidents, cardiac arrests, or serious accidents in more remote areas. DSAA allows for fast transport to the nearest Major Trauma Centre when needed, significantly improving survival chances in life-threatening situations
2,909 missions
In the year to March 2024, DSAA attended 2,909 missions, nearly half of which involved traumatic injuries and a further 21% cardiac emergencies. Each mission costs around £3,500, and the charity is 95% funded by donations, legacies, fundraising and its weekly lottery. They continue to appeal for support to maintain operations and push toward 24‑hour coverage with a second helicopter in the coming years.