Air Ambulance Charity KSS shortlisted for four national awards

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) has been shortlisted for four categories at the 2026 Air Ambulances UK Awards of Excellence.

The prestigious awards recognise outstanding professionalism, dedication and achievement across the UK's 21 air ambulance charities, which collectively deliver lifesaving emergency medical care to communities across the country.

KSS has been shortlisted in the following categories:

• Charity Staff Member of the Year: Fran Vale, Senior Community Fundraiser (Kent)
• Charity Volunteer of the Year: Steve Harley
• Organisational Staff of the Year: Rebecca Kenny, Director of Governance and Compliance
• Campaign of the Year: Restart a Heart Day, delivered in partnership with Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club

Fran Vale has been recognised for her contribution to increasing income, awareness and community engagement across Kent since joining the charity in December 2022. KSS said her work supporting fundraisers and developing youth initiatives, including Mission Badges for Scouts and Guides, has helped strengthen supporter relationships and inspire future generations.

Volunteer Steve Harley was inspired to join KSS after the charity attended his father following a cardiac arrest. Over the years he has become a familiar face at events, supported community engagement activities and played a key role in the charity's Restart a Heart Day campaign. KSS described him as an "exceptionally valued member" of the organisation.

Rebecca Kenny's nomination reflects her work in strengthening governance, compliance and assurance since joining KSS in 2020. The charity said she has helped create a culture where governance supports innovation while ensuring strong regulatory compliance and risk management.

The shortlisted Restart a Heart Day campaign has reached more than 150,000 people over the past three years through free online and face-to-face CPR and defibrillator training sessions. A major part of the campaign's success has been a partnership with Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, with players and youth squad members helping raise awareness of lifesaving CPR skills.

KSS Chief Executive David Welch said: "We're incredibly proud that the amazing work taking place across Team KSS has been recognised by the 2026 Air Ambulances UK Awards of Excellence, with KSS shortlisted in four categories.

"My sincere thanks and congratulations go to everyone shortlisted for all they have done, and continue to do, for KSS and our patients. I wish them all the best for the awards ceremony later this year."

The winners of the Air Ambulances UK Awards of Excellence will be announced at a ceremony at the Telford International Centre on Wednesday 3 December.

KSS serves communities across Kent, Surrey and Sussex, responding to an average of more than nine emergency incidents every day. The charity attended more than 3,100 incidents during 2024-25 and relies heavily on public donations to fund its operations. It costs around £57,000 a day to run the service.