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Patients across the South East are set to benefit from more consistent, high-quality ambulance care as South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) and South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) join forces to create the South Central and South East Ambulance Group, the first of its kind in England.
The new group model represents a proactive move to strengthen patient care, ensure long-term sustainability, and build greater resilience across the region’s ambulance services.
Working more closely together will enable both services to share expertise and resources, drive innovation, and invest in improvements that directly benefit patients.
While SCAS and SECAmb will continue to operate as independent Trusts, each serving the specific needs of their local communities, they will collaborate on shared priorities such as digital transformation, clinical best practice and workforce development.
To support this alignment, a shared leadership model will be introduced, with a single Chief Executive and Chair overseeing both Trusts. This approach is designed to strengthen strategic coordination while maintaining local accountability and identity.
“This is about levelling up care for every patient in the South East. Demand on our services is rising, and this model gives us the ability to respond more consistently, use our resources more effectively, and make sure patients receive the same high standard of care wherever they live.”
David Eltringham, Chief Executive, South Central Ambulance Service.
The move, backed by NHS England (South East) and aligned with the NHS Long Term Plan, aims to ensure that ambulance services across the region remain safe, equitable, and financially sustainable.
The transition to the new South Central and South East Ambulance Group will begin in late 2025 and continue through to 2027.
“This is a forward-looking partnership designed around patients and our people. Together we can build stronger teams, provide better support for our staff, and ensure ambulance services across the South East are fit for the future.”
Simon Weldon, Chief Executive, South East Coast Ambulance Service.
Anne Eden, Regional Director for NHS England in the South East, described the move as “a real opportunity to improve care and access for our patients, while offering better value for money.”
“A shared leadership model will ensure both services are fit for the future as the NHS continues to transform to deliver now and in years to come,” she said.
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