In 2025 our charity is celebrating 30 years since it was registered in September 1995. Through the generosity and support of individuals and communities, the South Western Ambulance Charity has been working alongside the South Western Ambulance Service in critical moments, supporting staff well-being, helping to equip volunteer First Responders and to help local communities to be better prepared to respond to cardiac arrests.

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It seems apt that 30 years ago on 15th September 1995 the number one song in the UK was 'You Are Not Alone', by Michael Jackson. (It was also the year that saw the launch of Windows 1995, the Tesco Clubcard, Amazon as a bookseller, the iconic Rachel haircut and the first Toy Story film!).  

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To help mark and celebrate our 30th anniversary we are inviting you to make a Creative Contribution to help expand the conversation around how we can all make a positive impact and contribution, by supporting our South Western Ambulance Service. ​

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What is a Creative Contribution? 

It could be a painting, poem or photograph; you could sew, knit or crochet; or write a song, whittle wood, or bake a cake. How you chose to creatively respond is up to you.

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A creative response gives opportunities to think, express, appreciate or understand in a different way. It can celebrate, challenge, inspire or bring joy. It's a chance to enjoy being creative and participate in celebrating the South Western Ambulance Charity's 30th anniversary. 

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What will you do with the Creative Contributions? 

We intend to showcase a selection of the Creative Contributions at our 30 Year Celebration event in September. We will also share them on online platforms such as our website and social media. Depending on what we receive, we may find more ways to share your creative responses as part of celebrating 30 years. 

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Who can submit a Creative Contribution? 

Anyone! Any age, from kids to care home residents, from patients to paramedics, etc. Your viewpoint could be from within the South Western Ambulance Service looking out, or from the wider South West community. 

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How do I submit a Creative Contribution? 

Please send details or pictures of your creative work to charity@swast.nhs.uk together with your name, email address, telephone number and the county that you live in. Do not send us objects, thank you. The deadline for receipt is Saturday 31 May 2025.

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Creative Prompts (just some ideas, you can have your own)

A 30th anniversary can be associated with Pearls, symbolising love, purity and wisdom, the colour Green and the Lily flower.  

 

Think about how we can support, value, appreciate, thank and work together alongside the South Western Ambulance Service, in critical moments. South West communities can help to save lives together. Be inspired by moments, by colours, by memories, by places and by how we can all go the extra mile.  

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Further information

This call out is not a commission and no payment is available. By submitting a Creative Contribution you will be agreeing to that content being used for promotional activities by the South Western Ambulance Charity and you agree to being contacted by the charity in relation to that submission. 

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Contact charity@swast.nhs.uk with any queries. 

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