Between 10 – 31 August 2021, 48 service personnel from 7 Regiment RLC deployed across the country to help support the NHS which is currently experiencing extreme pressure on its urgent and emergency care system.
All nine Ambulance Trusts in England are reported as ‘REAP 4’ meaning that they are under extreme pressure to carry out essential tasks.
CAT C Drivers from the Regt were deployed across nine ambulance stations, helping to complete a total of 1,827 patient transfers in support of frontline and patient transport ambulance capability.
The soldiers involved supported the North East and East of England Ambulance Services. The East of England Ambulance Trust confirmed that the peak of the crisis was managed with the assistance of 23 soldiers from 7 Regt RLC, allowing the Trust to now be back working at a manageable level. The troops were spread across seven counties with tasks being overseen by a SNCO based at Kendrew Barracks.
Training for the North East Ambulance Service Ambulance Trust took place between 11-18 August. This five-day training package included theory, driving assessments and light touch medical training. The 25 7 Regt soldiers deployed on this task then began their first shifts on 19 August.
Both trusts have confirmed that a second peak of tasks is expected in winter, with regards to both COVID-19 and other illnesses, and that support from the Regt would be welcomed thanks to the professional manner in which the soldiers carried out their duties.
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