East Midlands Ambulance Service Invests £36.5 Million in New Fleet

East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) has announced a significant investment of over £36.5 million to modernize its ageing fleet of vehicles. This initiative, part of a three-year strategic plan, aims to reduce the average age of its fleet to 3.5 years by acquiring new ambulances and support vehicles. The decision was discussed during a board meeting on January 13, 2024, where EMAS officials outlined the urgent need for fleet updates.

The current fleet includes 389 double-crewed ambulances, which have an average age of 4.83 years. These vehicles are essential for providing emergency services across the East Midlands, but board documents highlight that the existing fleet has been subjected to increased wear and tear due to rising mileage and extended idling periods outside hospitals. This situation contributes to higher maintenance costs and environmental concerns.

During the meeting, Stuart Poynor, EMAS’s director of finance, emphasized the challenges posed by the current fleet. “These vehicles are out 24/7 and running up hundreds of thousands of miles,” he stated. Poynor noted that the trust was striving to enhance its fleet’s resilience and capacity, as it currently operates at the low end of ambulance service benchmarks nationwide.

To address these issues, EMAS plans to purchase 65 new double-crewed ambulances annually. By the end of 2032, the average age of the fleet is expected to decrease to approximately 3.11 years. Poynor also mentioned ongoing efforts to secure funding for an additional 40 double-crewed ambulances, which would further bolster the service’s operational capacity.

Concerns regarding staff welfare were also raised during the meeting. Steven Dykes, clinical director, highlighted the importance of ensuring that the new vehicles meet staff requirements, stating, “We shouldn’t underestimate the impact it has on their wellbeing and welfare.” Poynor acknowledged the trust’s commitment to involving staff in the design and layout of ambulances, which has resulted in fewer complaints and a more functional vehicle design.

The investment plan will be funded through EMAS resources as well as financial support from the Government. This collaborative funding approach aims to facilitate the ambitious fleet renewal strategy.

As EMAS moves forward with this £36.5 million initiative, the trust remains focused on improving its service delivery while ensuring that its vehicles are both modern and efficient, ultimately enhancing patient care across the East Midlands.