NEW data shows that a total of 1,100 new or replacement Double Crewed Ambulances (DCAs) were delivered to NHS ambulance trusts between April last year and March this year.
This figure included 138 in the South Central Ambulance Service.
They came as a result of funding from a combination of national investment and local funding, in the biggest swathe of replacements delivered in a single year since records began.
The majority of the 1,141 vehicles replace older ambulances, while the remainder of the new vehicles will provide additional fleet capacity, aimed at relieving some of the pressure on services.
Health Minister, Zubir Ahmed said: “By modernising the NHS fleet, our hardworking paramedics are equipped with all the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively, while ensuring patients receive the highest possible standard of care.
“Replacing older vehicles with state-of-the-art ambulances means we are not only improving reliability and reducing downtime, but crucially helping more crews stay on the road and respond to emergencies.
“These vehicles are equipped with the technology to better protect staff and support faster, more effective treatment–a vital step in ensuring the NHS can continue to deliver world-class care for patients when they need it most.”
Dr Fenella Wrigley, National Medical Adviser, Ambulance, NHSE said: “New and replacement ambulances are crucial in providing care for patients, whether taking care to the patient home or conveying a patient to an emergency department.
“Reliable, modern, well-equipped ambulances allow emergency teams can stay out on the road and do what they do best, responding to patients quickly and ensuring they get the care they need.
Anna Parry, Managing Director of the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) said: “Delivering more than 1,100 new and replacement ambulances in a single year is a great achievement by NHS ambulance services in collaboration with DHSC and NHSE, and a genuine boost for patients and our people. Replacing older vehicles with modern, better‑equipped ambulances means greater reliability, fewer breakdowns and more time on the road where they are needed most.
“For our crews, these vehicles make a tangible difference–the enhanced safety features and improved working environment support paramedics and other clinicians to deliver high‑quality care under intense pressure, and they help our people feel safer and better supported on shift.
“This level of investment is essential as ambulance services continue to face sustained demand.
“A modern, resilient fleet is fundamental to improving response times and ensuring patients receive timely, safe care wherever they are when it is needed. We welcome this record year of delivery and look forward to continued progress in strengthening ambulance services across the country.”
