The air ambulance service in Northern Ireland has seen a significant rise in demand this year.

The Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) has been called out 50 more times than in 2023.

This increase comes as Air Ambulance Week 2024, which raises awareness of the lifesaving work of air ambulance charities across the UK, takes place from September 9 to 15.

Glenn O’Rorke, operational lead of the service, said: "Anyone in Northern Ireland can become a patient at any time, and this year we have seen an increase in the number of people who have needed the HEMS compared to last year.

"50 additional call-outs mean multiple individuals who have needed critical pre-hospital care at the scene of their accident or medical emergency."

(Image: Air Ambulance Northern Ireland)

The air ambulance service operates 365 days a year in Northern Ireland, providing vital support for 12 hours each day.

This operation is made possible thanks to the partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) and the fundraising and donations from the people of Northern Ireland.

The daily funding requirement for the charity Air Ambulance NI is £6,850.

Kerry Anderson, head of fundraising at the charity, said: "Advanced pre-hospital care for people like Tiernan with sudden life-threatening injury or illness can save lives and improve patient outcomes.

"By supporting your air ambulance charity, you will truly be making a difference to someone’s life.

"We ask you to consider how you can play your part in saving lives whether that is joining as a member of Air Ambulance with a monthly direct debit, hosting a fundraising coffee morning or donating a few hours of your time as a volunteer."