17 Sep 2014
Having chosen London’s Air Ambulance and Midlands Air Ambulance as their charities of the year, staff at Phoenix Group have embraced many fundraising challenges in 2014 to raise money for both charities, including a sky dive, a hike, an abseil, a cycle and a cake sale, all in only 6 months. A recent visit to the London’s Air Ambulance helipad marked the half-way point of the charity partnership. So far, Phoenix Group staff have raised over £43,000 with fundraising activities continuing until April 2015.
Phoenix Group Charity Committee member, Amy Bumstead commented: “To stand at the top of The Royal London Hospital and watch over the city that, for many of us, is where our daily routine begins, but for countless others is where their lives are suddenly thrown into disarray, was one of the most humbling of experiences. The calmness I felt was replaced with anxiety as it occurred to me that whether during my visit, in an hour’s time, or the next day, someone would require the help of the air ambulance that I was stood next to and it was this very thing, along with the specialists who brought this visit to life, that would do the ultimate — save a life.
“On this day I had come face-to-face with the cause we are supporting this year and it will be the emotions I felt here that will inspire me to help London’s Air Ambulance continue with their efforts.”
Helen Shelley, Events Manager at Phoenix Group added: “Standing almost 300 feet above London it struck me that the bright red helicopter in front of me would be the difference between somebody living or dying that day. Like many other commuters I had got on my train that morning, hopped in my taxi and crossed London’s busy roads without giving a second thought to being involved in an accident. The stark reality though is that a normal day can sometimes take a terrible turn of events. Standing in the silence above the city I realised my potential lifeline could be that one advanced trauma team in front of me. This is why it’s so important we support the fundraising work of London’s Air Ambulance and ensure there is the best possible service available to as many people at all times.”
With the Phoenix Group matching every penny raised by the company’s employees, the London and Birmingham offices of the largest UK consolidator of closed life assurance funds are set to make a significant difference in their local communities.
