It’s takeoff for upgrades on Soton hospital’s helipad as £153k donation funds new lighting

University Hospital Southampton has received a donation of £153,000 from the HELP Appeal to fund upgrades to its helipad.

The hospital has wasted no time installing new energy-efficient lighting around the helipad – both cutting energy consumption and improving safety for air ambulance and coastguard pilots.

Its helipad – funded by a £1 million boost from the HELP Appeal in 2011 – has seen over 4,000 landings from the helicopter emergency medical services.

David French, CEO of University Hospital Southampton, said: “We’re extremely grateful to our friends at the HELP Appeal for ensuring that our team within the Emergency Department can continue to deliver high quality emergency care.

“Their generosity will have a very positive impact for the most seriously ill patients in our region.”

Robert Bertram, chief executive of the HELP Appeal, added: “People can become seriously ill or injured at any time, day or night, which is why lighting is crucial at University Hospital Southampton’s helipad.

“This new installation will ensure air ambulances can continue to land safely, even after dark, just as they have for many years, allowing patients to receive the urgent care they need and ultimately saving many lives.”

The HELP Appeal has funded 55 helipads across the country, with 50 more in the pipeline.

The charity also recently put £300,000 towards Operation Airbase, which will see Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance relocate to a new HQ near Southampton Airport.

• helpappeal.org.uk