Nottingham Uni ambulance destined for Ukraine

The ambulance was previously used by Nottingham’s Faculty of Engineering as a testbed for neonatal technologies. It has now been loaded with 19 medical oxygen concentrators, which produce a continuous supply of oxygen and negate the need for regular bottled gas. These vital medical devices have been donated by Nottingham University Hospitals NHS, with a further 30 due to be shipped in the future.

“We used the ambulance as a testbed for technologies to make transporting very premature babies less stressful and safer,” said Professor of Bioengineering Donal McNally, who coordinated the donation effort. “Now that this project is over, it is fantastic that it is going to continue saving lives and I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to this incredibly important cause.”

The donation was facilitated with the help of Ambulance Aid, a charity launched in March 2022 to fund the purchase of former ambulances and deliver them in partnership with Medical Aid Ukraine. So far, Ambulance Aid has delivered 16 ambulances filled with medical supplies to Ukraine, with volunteers driving them across Europe to get there. Nottingham Uni’s ambulance and supplies are due to start their journey east in early May after the vehicle and equipment have undergone service checks.

“Our strength comes from teamwork,” said Claudine Pearson, volunteer director at Ambulance Aid.

“So many local people have stepped up to do what they can, where they can. I’d like to express my thanks to those who have continued to support the cause, meaning we are able to deliver on the gifting of this vehicle from the University of Nottingham to help save lives in Ukraine.”

Professor Sam Kingman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Engineering, added: “After a successful project I’m happy to see our research ambulance being put to another crucial cause and would like to congratulate Donal for coordinating such a fantastic assortment of supplies for Ambulance Aid. The fact he’s been able to collect such an impressive variety of equipment is a testament to how many people want to aid those affected by the war in Ukraine.”