It’s been 11 years since the lifesaving helipad at Southmead hospital in Bristol became operational and it has now seen over 2,500 landings. The helipad cost £450,000 to build of which the HELP Appeal, thanks to its supporters, contributed £250,000 – over half of the entire cost.

As a key adult Major Trauma Centre for Bristol and the South West, there has been an average of nearly five landings every week since the ground level helipad became operational, giving critically ill patients quicker access to specialist treatment in medical emergencies, which is helping to save many lives.

Robert Bertram, Chief Executive of the HELP Appeal says:

“This helipad is one of the busiest out of the 55 we’ve funded nationwide, and its impact is nothing short of lifechanging. Every landing here represents a race against time for critically ill patients, bringing them within moments of the Emergency Department which can dramatically improve their outcome. It’s not just a helipad; it’s a lifeline—because every second counts when it comes to saving a life.”