The IAA was established in 2012 as a not-for-profit trade association for independent ambulance services. We are the largest association representing regulated independent ambulance providers in England and also have associate members in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Our original purpose was to represent the views of a growing number of independent providers to healthcare policymakers and key stakeholders. By coincidence, our launch was 40 years to the day since Michael De Charmant started Inter-County Ambulance Service, the longest established independent ambulance company in the UK.

Today we represent over 50 companies providing ambulance services from over 70 locations, ranging from discrete to sizeable companies working across the UK providing a range of services.

We are the voice of the independent ambulance sector on several governmental strategic advisory groups, ensuring the views of the sector are heard and that providers are on a ‘level playing field’.

Each year our members collectively transport or have contact with approximately 5 million patients.

Brave means we do the right thing, even when it isn’t the easy option. We aren’t afraid to say no. We act in the best interests of our members and the sector.

Decent means we treat people fairly. We value our member companies equally regardless of size.

Independent means we are unbiased. We are led by an independent, unaffiliated Executive Chairman. For transparency, we maintain a register of director interests, ensuring our decisions and actions are independent.