Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has been announced as a finalist for the Responsible Business of the Year Award at the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, sponsored by Rydale Roofing.

Operating from its Tatenhill airbase for 35 years, the charity funds three air ambulances and a fleet of critical care cars, attending around 4,000 missions annually at a cost of £16m, entirely without government or National Lottery funding. A recent investment in a new H145 helicopter, purchased rather than leased to reduce long-term costs, reflects the financial stewardship that earned the charity an Outstanding CQC rating in 2024.

Beyond its missions, the charity runs a Patient Liaison Service for those affected by life-changing trauma, operates charity shops including one at the Potteries Shopping Centre, and holds both Investors in People Gold and Investors in Volunteers accreditation. Volunteer Pat Roberts, aged 86, has delivered over 350 community talks in Staffordshire alone.

Stuart Elford, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is quite simply one of the most vital organisations serving Staffordshire and its communities. The dedication of their crew, staff and volunteers is extraordinary, and the financial discipline they apply to ensure every pound raised goes back into frontline care is exactly the kind of responsible leadership this award exists to recognise. We are proud to have them among our finalists and look forward to celebrating with them on the night.”

The winners will be revealed at a gala awards ceremony at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Thursday 9 July 2026, followed by The After Party, a late-night celebration for finalists, winners and partners.

To find out more about the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, visit staffordshirechambers.co.uk/awards.