News 2011

Elevacion recently participated in two RUSI workshops, contributing to discussions about 'Helicopter Emergency Response: Cost Effective Operations' and ‘Blue Light Helicopters: Cost Effective Operations for the Future'.

Representing Elevacion, Jim Thomson, CEO, brought his international knowledge and experience in multi-mission operations to the conversations. Jim attempted to break down some of the perceived barriers to change in current UK operations, as well as the Island Politics' that prevents separate organisations from being more effective and efficient. Jim also, encouraged others to consider changes on the basis of Capability, Availability and Response.

Jim also proposed that a National Air Ambulance Service, matching National Air Service in Capability, Availability and Response could be formed. This would replace the disparate, localised and competing county services to provide much greater resilience in the case of major incidents and the adoption of standards such as CAMTS and a specialist training academy would increase overall operational efficiency and safety as well reduce costs significantly. A National Air Ambulance Service would also reduce the overall risk of service outages due to a lack of available helicopters due to maintenance and more so from funding, which most currently experience.

The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is an independent think tank engaged in cutting edge defence and security research. A unique institution, founded in 1831 by the Duke of Wellington, RUSI embodies nearly two centuries of forward thinking, free discussion and careful reflection on defence and security matters.

RUSI contact: Jennifer Cole (jenniferC@rusi.org)