Hampshire’s ambulance service is joining forces with its neighbour in a new partnership that aims to boost emergency care across the South East.
South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) – which covers Hampshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire – will link up with South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb), which serves Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Together, they’ll form the South Central and South East Ambulance Group.
The idea is to pool expertise, modernise systems, and make sure patients get the same high standard of care wherever they live. Both trusts will still operate separately, but they’ll share leadership and work together on key priorities like digital innovation, clinical best practice, and workforce development.
A single chief executive and chair will lead both trusts, helping to streamline decision-making and strengthen cooperation.
David Eltringham, Chief Executive of SCAS, said the move is about “levelling up care for every patient in the South East.”
“Demand on our services is rising, and this model gives us the ability to respond more consistently, use our resources more effectively, and make sure patients receive the same high standard of care wherever they live,” he said.
Patients should notice more consistent care and quicker access to the right treatment – with fewer unnecessary trips to A&E.
Simon Weldon, Chief Executive of SECAmb, said the partnership was “forward-looking and built around patients and our people.”
“Together we can build stronger teams, provide better support for our staff, and ensure ambulance services across the South East are fit for the future,” he added.
NHS England (South East) has backed the move, which ties in with the NHS Long Term Plan.
Anne Eden, the regional director, said:
“This new group model is a real opportunity to improve care and access for our patients, while offering better value for money.”
The new South Central and South East Ambulance Group will be rolled out gradually from late 2025 through to 2027.