As pubs and department stores disappear from our high streets, a unique opportunity emerges to breathe new life into our town centres.

These empty, prime locations—with their excellent public transport links and parking—are perfect for a new generation of NHS Walk-in Centres.

Prioritising healthcare capital spending on this initiative would be a double win: it would provide convenient, accessible urgent care for large populations, easing the immense pressure on our A&E departments, while also re-purposing vacant buildings and driving footfall back to our struggling high streets.

Helicopters?

For certain emergencies, such as road traffic accidents, heart attacks, or strokes, air ambulances can be a critical resource. They can reach patients in remote areas or those with difficult access quickly.

England, Wales, Northern Ireland: All emergency air ambulance helicopters are charity-funded (not directly NHS-owned)

England: Has 19 helicopters

Wales: Has 3 helicopters

Northern Ireland: Has 1 helicopter

Scotland: The Scottish Ambulance Service operates a fleet of 2 helicopters, which are funded by the NHS and 2 charity funded helicopters.

The NHS staff (doctors, paramedics) who crew these helicopters are typically seconded from NHS ambulance services and hospitals.

How can Government support these charities and help them with fund raising.