We opened the two-day national Third Sector Conference 2025 at London’s prestigious Barbican with a powerful conversation on the importance of trust in the delivery of our world-leading lifesaving service and its role in leadership and culture.
This flagship event brings together hundreds of leaders and colleagues working across the charity sector, from fundraising and frontline teams to CEOs and trustees. We were proud to see KSS represented on the main stage alongside major national charities including Mind, Shelter, Cancer Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society and Parkinson’s UK.
Our Medical Director, Doctor Duncan Bootland, and Executive Director of Corporate Services, Ian Howick, were invited to take part in a panel discussion led by Third Sector Deputy Editor, Lucinda Rouse, to explore how trust is built and maintained, particularly during high-stakes decisions and moments of change.
Ian Howick explained our impact is made possible by more than just expertise: “Trust is the thread running through every relationship we hold including with patients, NHS partners, supporters, regulators and colleagues. It’s built through consistency, transparency, and being honest. On occasions this can lead to uncomfortable conversations, but that is where trust develops.”
Duncan Bootland agreed: “When we arrive at a scene, patients don’t know us, but they have to trust us instantly,” said Duncan. “That’s why everything we do, from clinical care to communication, has to earn that trust. And fast.”
Our helicopters are flying emergency rooms. When there’s a life-or-death call, we bring specialised doctors, paramedics and treatment to the scene, fast. And we don’t stop 24/7, 365 days a year.
Duncan highlighted the vital role of our Patient and Family Aftercare Programme, which supports former patients, and their families, and bereaved families, long after attending the incident:
“For many families, we’re part of the worst day of their lives. But that doesn’t end when the helicopter leaves. We stay in touch, help answer questions, and support recovery in any way we can. Because trust goes beyond the incident, it’s about care, all the way through.”
We’re incredibly grateful to Third Sector for inviting us to the conference, and proud to have shared the event with so many brilliant colleagues from across the UK charity sector.
