GWAAC is the air ambulance for North Somerset

North Somerset hugs the 24 mile coastline from Portishead down to Weston-super-Mare and dives along the tops of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty over to beautiful Blagdon Lake and the stunning Magnas.

Alongside a growing arts and cultural scene in Weston and a number of charming towns, there are endless countryside and coastal walks and outdoor activities across the district.

We were called out 277 times to North Somerset in 2024; more than five times a week on average to help someone in urgent need.

In April 2024 we opened our first shop in North Somerset, on Portishead High Street, we can't wait to see you there! find out more about our shops over on our retail web page.

You can find us at some of the biggest and best events in the region, including Weston Air Festival, Dig for Victory and Mud Master.

2024 North Somerset missions in numbers:

277

Call-outs to North Somerset

Up from 262 in 2023

72 by helicopter

Compared to 74 in 2023

205 by critical care car

Up from 188 in 2023

167

Medical emergencies

Up from 156 in 2023

110

Trauma incidents

Up from 106 in 2023

We were called out to North Somerset 277 times in 2024. That's up from 262 times in 2023 and 211 times in 2022.

Meet Savannah - Supporter Engagement Officer for North Somerset

Savannah's Q&A

North Somerset Hotspot

I can't choose just one! I would recommend... Starting with a gentle hike along Cadbury Camp, followed by a coffee and cake from Fawn Coffee in Clevedon to enjoy along the iconic Victorian seafront!

Tell us about your supporters

All of our supporters are incredible. Since starting at GWAAC, it has been so inspiring to read and see first-hand the generosity and passion our supporters have to help us provide our lifesaving missions. From providing our crew with hampers, to hosting plant and book sales, to partnerships with local Bowls and Rotary clubs all the way to being present at community events - we are thankful for them all.

Favourite fundraiser

In North Somerset, we are fortunate to have an incredible supporter base. Every single supporter makes a lifesaving difference to the work we do. I particularly feel a special shoutout to two amazing supporters, Audrey and Colin, who donate to us through sheer generosity as and when they do fundraising for us. Their generosity is incredible, and we are grateful for everything they do.

What Surprised You Most About GWAAC

The fact that everything involved in our lifesaving missions (from helicopter fuel to critical care equipment) is only made possible from donations. I didn't realise before working for a local air ambulance charity that most don't receive any government funding and the vital work is all funded by the generosity of local people, groups and communities.

Favourite Thing About Working for GWAAC

The fact that every week I get to work with extraordinary people - from our charity office team, retail staff, critical care crew, and, of course, our supporters! Every single person I connect with through GWAAC comes with their own insights, ideas, and inspirations that help us all to keep up the amazing work towards our vital missions. It is really inspiring.

Favourite food

I’m a salad fiend, so anything from homemade coleslaw to tapenade. As long as there’s bread and cheese involved, I’m happy!

Top TV recommendation

I recently enjoyed Day of the Jackal (Sky/NowTV) and Slow Horses (Apple TV).

Dick's Story

When retired policeman Dick Berry, left his doctor’s surgery on the morning of 2 February 2013, things took an unexpected turn for the worse when he crashed his van not more than fifty yards away. Dick’s survival was down to teamwork and unbelievably good luck. As former GWAAC Critical Care Doctor, Dr Leon Roberts says, “Dick lucked out with his chain of survival. On another day, it might not have worked.”

Find out more