Stoke Air Ambulance charity without helicopter under investigation

The Stoke Air Ambulance charity is under investigation over serious concerns about how it's being run.

The Charity Commission has opened a statutory inquiry after previous concerns about it's ability deliver an air ambulance for the city.

The charity does not yet have access to a helicopter, an operational base, or clinicians, and does not have Care Quality Commission approval.

The inquiry, started on 6th January 2026, is set to address a number of areas after issues were flagged by the Fundraising Regulator.

The regulator noted a lack of clarity around the charity's fundraising targets and proper oversight of funds collected from the public.

They found that the charity may have encouraged people to redirect donations away from other air ambulance charities.

In response, the trustees of Stoke Air Ambulance said, "The trustees of Stoke Air Ambulance CIO are fully aware of the findings of the Fundraising Regulator and are taking steps to address the issues raised.

"In addition to this, the trustees have been engaged with the Charity Commission since November 2025 and are cooperating fully with the Statutory Inquiry opened on the 6th January 2026.

"The trustees have nothing further to add at this stage."

The Midlands Air Ambulance charity is reiterating that they are not affiliated with Stoke Air Ambulance. A spokesperson said: "In recent months we have received several enquiries from our supporters asking if we are connected to a charity called ‘Helicopter Emergency Service Equipment’ (HESE) also known as ‘Stoke Air Ambulance’.

"For clarification, it is important to note that HESE/Stoke Air Ambulance is a separate organisation and is not connected to Midlands Air Ambulance Charity."

They say welcome the actions taken by both regulatory bodies: "Strong and proactive oversight is essential to maintaining public confidence across the sector.

"Effective regulation protects donors, upholds trust, and ensures that charitable funds are used for genuine public benefit."

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