A NEW charity has been launched to raise cash to support emergency services staff and local communities.

The North West Ambulance (NWAS) Charity funds lifesaving equipment, education programmes and projects that will benefit the health, wellbeing and safety of patients, staff and communities across the region.

A NWAS fund was set up in 2008 to allow legacy gifts and donations from the public, businesses and grant funders to be used to support the service.

In the last year the charity has funded more than 100 defibrillators in public places.

Now the fund has been developed into the new North West Ambulance Charity and has been launched with fresh branding, charity mascot Pandamedic and a JustGiving page.

Charity development manager, Vincent Sherard-Bornshin said: “The good-will of patients, the public, community groups and local businesses allows us to fund extra projects which can make a huge difference to so many people, both in the community and within NWAS.

“With the official launch of North West Ambulance Charity, we’re asking people to make a small donation through our JustGiving page and keep the charity in mind for any upcoming fundraising events or ideas.

"Any contribution, big or small, can help us towards our goal of supporting staff and saving lives.”

With the support of the public, the charity will continue to fund vital lifesaving defibrillators, along with other initiatives such as schools education programmes, additional equipment and clinical training aids.

Cash raised will also contribute to more health and wellbeing schemes to support ambulance service staff who work all year-round to be there for North West residents.

For more information visit www.nwas.nhs.uk/charity or to donate visit www.justgiving.com/nwambulance