COMMUNITIES across Teignbridge are being asked to rally behind Devon Air Ambulance after the charity revealed it is spending more than it receives, resulting in a £1.1 million deficit.

The charity, which receives no direct Government funding for its day-to-day operations, responded to more than 2,100 emergencies last year, providing critical care to patients across Devon and beyond.

However, rising operating costs and a reduction in legacy income have left expenditure exceeding income, prompting the organisation to introduce a series of measures aimed at improving its long-term financial sustainability.

Its latest Annual Report confirmed that the charity is spending more than it receives, with a further deficit forecast for 2026.

Planned measures include improving efficiency, introducing cost-saving initiatives and reviewing the organisation’s structure.

These changes are expected to deliver annual savings of around £400,000, although the charity says this will not be enough to cover the predicted shortfall.

It is the second time in recent years that Devon Air Ambulance has recorded a budget deficit.

In 2023, the charity faced a gap of just over £2 million, before high levels of legacy income helped generate a surplus in 2024, before returning to a deficit in 2025.

Dave Hawes, the charity’s director of corporate services and accountable manager, said the report highlighted both the impact of its emergency response work and the financial pressures facing the organisation.

‘Our latest Annual Report tells two stories.

‘The first is one of extraordinary impact. Last year our crews attended more than 2,100 emergencies, providing critical care to people at the worst moments of their lives’, he said.

‘The second is a financial reality facing not just Devon Air Ambulance, but many charities across the country.

‘The cost of delivering our service continues to rise, while income is becoming increasingly challenging and unpredictable’, he added.

Mr Hawes said the charity was reviewing costs, improving efficiency and strengthening its fundraising activity, but stressed that continued support from the public would be essential.

‘The simple truth is that Devon Air Ambulance exists because local people choose to support it. Every mission we fly is funded by our supporters. There is no us without you’, he said.

The charity says it remains focused on maintaining its existing frontline service, with funds available to allow time for its recovery plans to be implemented. However, it warns that sustained public support will be needed to protect the service for future generations.

To encourage further backing, Devon Air Ambulance is launching its Keep Us Flying campaign, highlighting the increasing cost of delivering critical care across one of the UK’s largest and most challenging operating regions.

The campaign will ask supporters to help safeguard a service available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which reaches hundreds of people every month.

Mr Hawes said the charity was determined to protect patient care and had a clear plan to address its financial position, but could not do so alone.

‘The people of Devon have built this service over more than three decades. With their support, we can ensure it remains for the people who will need us tomorrow, next month and for many years to come’, he said.