Following a press release yesterday related to ongoing Union negotiations, Wellington Free Ambulance would like to reassure the people of Greater Wellington and Wairarapa that we remain committed to meeting the needs of people facing an emergency due to accident or illness.

Wellington Free Ambulance is in the early stages of the bargaining process with FIRST Union and look forward to continuing the conversation started in July at the next meeting. As this is an ongoing process it is not appropriate to comment on specific details of offers or claims.

Wellington Free Ambulance would like to clarify for the community where funding comes from and the importance of fundraising to keep services free of charge. As an essential health service Wellington Free Ambulance receives the majority of funding (approx. 82%) from Government and ACC. The bulk of this funding goes to staff wages and salaries.

Each year Wellington Free Ambulance must raise over $7Million from community fundraising events like Onesie Appeal, which is just one element to the fundraising strategy.

”All funds raised from Onesie Appeal and other fundraising activities like grants, donations, and corporate support fund essential frontline resources like ambulances and first response vehicles, defibrillators, stretchers and other vital equipment frontline teams need to save lives.

The community should feel assured that any donation made to support Wellington Free Ambulance goes towards ensuring the only free ambulance service in New Zealand remains that way.” Explained Wellington Free Ambulance General Manager of Fundraising and Communications Claire Carruthers.

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