Each year the EDP Business Awards selects a charity to raise funds for throughout the awards process and at the ceremony itself. This year, the awards will support the well-known local organisation, Norfolk Accident Rescue Service (NARS), which has been helping people in emergency situations since 1970.
NARS is a charitable organisation dedicated to providing advanced pre-hospital medical care to individuals in Norfolk and the surrounding areas.
Established with the mission to support the East of England Ambulance Service, NARS consists of a team of highly skilled volunteer doctors, paramedics and advanced practitioners. These professionals respond to critical medical emergencies, offering life-saving interventions that are often beyond the capabilities of standard ambulance crews.
The core function of NARS is to deliver rapid and expert medical attention to patients suffering from severe trauma, cardiac arrests and other life-threatening conditions.
NARS volunteers are equipped with advanced medical training and specialised equipment, enabling them to administer critical care at the scene of an accident or medical emergency.
This immediate, high-level medical response significantly enhances the chances of survival and recovery for patients before they reach a hospital.
NARS volunteers deliver life-saving care in medical emergencies (Image: NARS)
In recent years, NARS has played a crucial role in responding to major incidents, including road traffic collisions, industrial accidents and medical emergencies in remote areas.
The team is on call nearly 24/7 – ready to assist whenever and wherever they are needed. The dedication and expertise of NARS’ volunteers ensure that the charity provides an indispensable service to the community, often making the difference between life and death.
Currently, NARS is undertaking a significant fundraising initiative to invest in new equipment for the volunteers. This initiative is driven by the need to enhance the service’s operational capabilities and ensure that the team is always prepared to provide the highest standard of care.
Critical pieces of equipment NARS is looking to acquire include the latest portable ventilators, which are crucial for patients who are unable to breathe independently.
Additionally, the service is aiming to upgrade its defibrillators to ensure that it is equipped with the latest technology for better patient outcomes during cardiac emergencies.
Another priority is to secure funding for an additional patient monitor that provides real-time data on a patient’s condition, aiding volunteers in making informed decisions rapidly.
To achieve its fundraising goals, NARS is organising a series of community events, including charity runs, local fairs and online crowdfunding campaigns. It is also reaching out to local businesses and philanthropists for sponsorships and donations.
Every contribution – no matter how small – plays a vital role in helping NARS acquire the equipment needed to save lives.
Support from Norfolk’s businesses and their people is essential for NARS to continue its life-saving work.
If you would like to discuss ways you can help NARS continue to save lives across Norfolk, please email fundraising and events manager Joe Russell on joe.russell@nars.org.uk
To make a donation to NARS as part of the EDP Business Awards 2024, visit nars.org.uk/donate
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